Sorting students by IQ at age 15-17 (or even younger, with testing in third grade) creates a bifurcated system: those identified as 'smart' are accelerated into high achievement, while those identified as 'dumb' check out and become apathetic, losing any pathway to engagement and self-worth.
causalpending
Speaker
David BrooksEvidence Quote
“the kids who take these tests in third or fourth grade who realize, "Oh, I'm dumb." They check out.”
Source
David Brooks: America Has a Moral Problem, Not a Political One | Prof G Conversations— The Prof G Pod – Scott GallowayCreated: 8/12/2026, 6:39:10 PM
My Notes
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