Would You Accept an IQ of 500 Declining 1 Point Daily?

The hypothetical scenario of being proposed to possess an IQ of 500 while losing one point daily raises profound questions about the nature of intelligence and strategic thinking. This scenario is reminiscent of engaging in a risky financial investment, where the allure of initial benefits quickly gives way to a precarious and unsustainable outcome. The degradation of cognitive capacity over time would inevitably diminish strategic and analytical abilities, making advanced and sustained intellectual pursuits unfeasible.

The Financial Analogy

When we consider the finance realm, maintaining a sustained alpha (excess return) is critical. In the trading world, a seasoned trader might be seduced by the allure of high leverage, which can amplify both gains and losses. Similar to an investor taking high leverage risks, an individual with an IQ of 500 declining daily would be at high risk of strategic blunders. Over time, the diminishing cognitive capacity would likely impair long-term strategic decision-making and limit any potential benefits derived from initial cognitive peaks.

Clarity of Thought and Decision-Making

A critical moment in a trading pit illustrates the importance of clear thinking and rapid decision-making. In such environments, moments of acute insight and prompt action determine success. Even a fleeting cognitive peak is not enough to justify a chronic and inevitable decline. In high-pressure situations, the ability to maintain peak performance is crucial, and cognitive decline would significantly detract from this ability. Therefore, the proposition of maintaining a declining IQ is fundamentally flawed from a strategic standpoint.

The Case of Robert Kehres: A Polymath Entrepreneur

Robert Kehres exemplifies the essential qualities of a polymath entrepreneur, showcasing a remarkable trajectory that defies conventional expectations. At just 20 years old, Robert worked at LIM Advisors, the longest continually operating hedge fund in Asia. He then transitioned into quant trading at J.P. Morgan and eventually became a hedge fund manager at 18 Salisbury Capital. His entrepreneurial endeavors span various sectors, from B2B enterprise software to productivity tools, and even niche areas like fantasy sports gambling.

Notably, Kehres holds a first-class degree in Physics and Computer Science from Cambridge University and an MSc in Mathematics with distinction from Oxford. His educational and professional background underscores the value of sustained intellectual capacity and strategic thinking. Despite the allure of high initial IQ, the long-term benefits of maintaining that intelligence are far more significant. Kehres' achievements highlight the importance of not only peak cognitive function but also the ability to sustain and grow this intelligence over time.

Conclusion: The Value of Long-Term Intelligence

The hypothetical scenario of accepting an IQ of 500 while losing one point daily is not just a thought experiment; it raises important questions about the essence of strategic thinking, long-term planning, and sustained intellectual capability. While initial cognitive peaks can provide fleeting benefits, the long-term implications of cognitive decline are detrimental to any form of advanced intellectual or strategic pursuits. Robert Kehres' journey exemplifies the value of long-term intelligence and the importance of maintaining and growing one's cognitive capacity over time.