Simi Valley Sophist

The Simi Valley Sophist ruminates on all manner of topics from the micro to the macro. SVS travels whatever path strikes his fancy. Encyclopedia Britannica: Sophist "Any of certain Greek lecturers, writers, and teachers in the 5th and 4th centuries BC, most of whom travelled about the Greek-speaking world giving instruction in a wide range of subjects in return ..."

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Location: California, United States

Retired: 30years law enforcement-last 20 years Criminal Intelligence Detective.

Sunday, December 17, 2006

Vegetarian Means Lousy Hunter

I believe that it was Andy Rooney who said that the word vegetarian is an old Indian word for lousy hunter. A new study is out claiming that vegetarians are more intelligent than meat eaters.

Frequently dismissed as cranks, their fussy eating habits tend to make them unpopular with dinner party hosts and guests alike.
… research showing vegetarians are more intelligent than their meat-eating friends.

A study of thousands of men and women revealed that those who stick to a vegetarian diet have IQs that are around five points higher than those who regularly eat meat.

…researchers say it isn't clear why veggies are brainier - but admit the fruit and veg-rich vegetarian diet could somehow boost brain power.

There actually may be something of value to the study, but like all scientific studies it is nothing more than the current understanding of a phenomenon based upon the accuracy and design of the study.

Of course, the next question is what is the significance of the IQ test, and does it actually measure anything of value to the human race? The human brain is phenomenal for humans, but it would be pretty stupid in the world of a snake or crocodile, which are 100% carnivores. I doubt a vegetarian snake or crocodile could be judged more intelligent than their carnivore brethren since the vegan reptiles would soon starve to death.

Humans evolved as omnivores so I doubt that totally giving up meat is likely to be the smartest move, despite the IQ advantages. You can’t eat an IQ level and a filet mignon still tastes mighty good. Medium rare please.