Critical Theory of Intelligence

The application of Critical Theory to the concept of intelligence—examining how intelligence is defined, measured, and used, and how these practices reflect and reinforce social hierarchies. Critical Theory of Intelligence asks: Whose definition of intelligence counts? How have intelligence tests been used to justify racism, classism, and ableism? What counts as "smart" in different cultures? Who benefits from treating intelligence as a fixed, measurable trait? Drawing on critical psychology, disability studies, and anti-racist thought, it insists that intelligence is never neutral—it's always political, always a site of struggle over who counts as capable, worthy, human.

"They measure IQ and rank people. Critical Theory of Intelligence asks: measure what? Developed by whom? Intelligence tests were designed to prove white supremacy—that's their history. Even today, they measure familiarity with dominant culture, not some universal 'smart.' Critical theory insists on asking: who benefits from defining intelligence this way? And what would we see if we valued different kinds of smart?"

Critical Theory of Intelligence by Abzugal Nammugal Enkigal March 4, 2026