Why Are High IQs More Common Among Individuals with Autism? An Evolutionary Perspective

Conclusion：The higher prevalence of high IQs among individuals with autism is a result of natural selection. Those with higher IQs and autism-related genes possess certain advantages in environmental adaptability, allowing them to survive and reproduce more effectively. In contrast, individuals with lower IQs are less likely to pass on their genes, leading to the apparent correlation between autism and high intelligence observed today.

From an evolutionary standpoint, the higher prevalence of high IQs among individuals with autism can be explained through the principles of natural selection and adaptability. The core reason lies in the fact that individuals carrying autism-related genes generally have weaker environmental adaptability. Among them, only those with higher IQs are better equipped to offset these disadvantages, thereby improving their chances of leaving descendants. Over time, this has created the appearance of a correlation between autism and high intelligence.

 1. Autism-Related Genes and Environmental Adaptability

Individuals carrying autism-related genes often face challenges in social interactions and group cooperation, which are critical for survival in complex social environments. This social disadvantage reduces their ability to adapt to their surroundings, making it less likely for individuals with lower IQs who carry these genes to survive and reproduce. As a result, natural selection tends to eliminate this segment of the population.

2. The Adaptive Advantages of High IQ Carriers

However, individuals with higher IQs who carry autism-related genes can compensate for their social limitations in various ways, giving them an adaptive advantage. For example:

- Problem-Solving Skills: High IQ individuals are more capable of solving survival challenges through innovation and independent thinking, such as finding resources, creating tools, or devising strategies.

- Specialized Skills: High IQ carriers often exhibit exceptional talents in specific areas, such as mathematics, art, or science, which can enhance their value within a community.

- Collaborative Value: Although their social abilities may be limited, their intellectual contributions (e.g., providing technical solutions or knowledge) make them valuable members of a group, improving their chances of acceptance and survival.

 3. The Long-Term Effects of Natural Selection

Over time, natural selection has favored high IQ carriers of autism-related genes, while lower IQ carriers are more likely to be eliminated. This process has gradually increased the proportion of high IQ carriers among individuals with autism. This evolutionary trend explains the observed association between autism and high intelligence today.

4. Misconceptions and Reality

It is important to clarify that the correlation between autism and high IQ does not mean autism directly causes high intelligence. Instead, this phenomenon reflects the selective pressure that favors individuals with higher adaptability. The key point is that lower IQ carriers are more frequently eliminated, leaving a higher proportion of high IQ individuals within the population of autism carriers.