Unveiling the Truth Behind Mensa: Misconceptions and Realities
It is a common notion that Mensa is a pretentious organization. However, such perceptions often stem from a lack of understanding about who joins and what the organization truly is. This article will delve into the reality of Mensa, demonstrating why its reputation is sometimes misjudged.
Myths and Realities
The pretentious perception of Mensa often begins with the belief that anyone can join simply by paying dues. IQ tests are required to join, which adds to the misconception that it is an arbitrary and elitist club. Mensa members must prove their intelligence through standardized or proctored exams, not just claim it. This ensures that Mensa members possess a genuine and verifiable level of intelligence.
What Does Mensa Do?
Mensa is a social organization aimed at people with high IQs, typically in the top two percent. Its primary focus is to provide a community for individuals who share the experience of being gifted, surpassing the average intelligence. Mensa members come from a variety of backgrounds, including MIT graduates, professionals, and hobbyists. They are not all high-achievers, and not all are necessarily ambitious or driven. Instead, they gather to share experiences and engage in intellectual discussions.
Misconceptions About Possessing High Intelligence
High intelligence, like many other talents, can be a source of pride. Similar to being proud of one's height without achieving greatness in basketball, being part of Mensa does not mean that members are inherently better than others. They are simply unique individuals with a particular set of cognitive abilities. Mensa members enjoy being part of a community where they can share their knowledge and experiences freely, without fear of judgment.
Verifying the Reality: Personal Experiences
I joined Mensa and the Tall Clubs of America in the same year after being widowed. Both organizations shared similarities and were not perceived as pretentious at the events I attended. In contrast, Parents Without Partners events were far more pretentious. This difference lies in the fact that both Mensa and the Tall Clubs are based on shared traits—high IQ or height—rather than shared personal interests or status. Anyone who meets the specific criteria can join, making the membership truly diverse and inclusive.
Why Certain Members Are Less Visible
Many high IQ individuals, such as those from MIT, do not join Mensa because they already have a ready-made social circle of high-achieving colleagues. Jobs like those at Bell Labs or Google often have a predominance of high IQ individuals, which creates a natural social environment. Members of Mensa, on the other hand, might not feel the need to emphasize their IQ scores as their careers or communities are already filled with intelligent individuals. This does not make them less gifted but simply highlights the nature of their social circles.
What Members Gains From Mensa
Regardless of career or life stage, being part of Mensa provides a unique and enriching experience. The organization offers mentorship for young children and provides scholarships, which is a significant contribution. Members can also participate in Special Interest Groups (SIGs) on various subjects, from quantum mechanics to less conventional topics like swinging and nudity. These groups foster discussions and intellectual growth, creating a vibrant and diverse community.
Conclusion: Embracing Intelligence
The real value of Mensa lies in its ability to bring together individuals who share a unique cognitive trait. It is not a pretentious organization but rather a platform for gifted individuals to connect and grow. Joining Mensa is a recognition of one's intellectual abilities, much like wearing a jersey to celebrate one's athletic achievements. So, the next time someone questions the legitimacy of Mensa, they might want to consider the reality of the organization and the meaningful connection it fosters among its members.