Lewis Terman
American psychologist who revised the Stanford-Binet IQ test.
Most quoted
"The IQ is not a measure of character, nor of social adjustment, nor of artistic ability, nor of mechanical skill, nor of any other specific aptitude."
— from Genetic Studies of Genius, Vol. I: Mental and Physical Traits of a Thousand Gifted Children, 1925
"The gifted child is not merely a brighter child, but a child who is qualitatively different in his intellectual and emotional make-up."
— from Genetic Studies of Genius, Vol. I: Mental and Physical Traits of a Thousand Gifted Children, 1925
"The gifted child is, on the average, superior to the unselected child in every physical and mental trait that we have measured."
— from Genetic Studies of Genius, Vol. I: Mental and Physical Traits of a Thousand Gifted Children, 1925
All quotes by Lewis Terman (100)
Critics of IQ tests miss the forest for the trees.
Art imitates life, but psychology explains it.
The essence of wisdom is knowing one's limits.
Geniuses are made, not just born.
In correspondence with colleagues, I often ponder the soul's measure.
A witty remark can illuminate a complex idea.
Professional growth comes from challenging assumptions.
The meaning of life is in the pursuit of understanding.
From my deathbed, I reflect that curiosity was my greatest gift.
Intelligence is the thread that weaves success.
Key to my work: observe, test, conclude.
In letters to students, I urged them to dream big.
At conferences, I quipped that IQ stands for 'Innate Quality'.
Personal joy stems from intellectual fulfillment.
The profound insight: environment shapes the genius within.
Politics of education must prioritize the gifted.
A comeback to skeptics: data doesn't lie, interpretations do.
Wisdom is intelligence applied to living well.
In my major works, I emphasized the nurture of nature.
Reflections on aging: the mind remains sharp if exercised.
Contemporaries of Lewis Terman
Other Psychologys born within 50 years of Lewis Terman (1877–1956).