The effects of nature or of nurture on sex differences in intellectual functioning: Israeli findings

Abstract

This paper contrasts the results of studies examining sex differences in intellectual functioning in the United States and in Israel. Israeli studies indicate earlier sex differences as well as a different pattern of sex differences than those found in the United States. Within Israel, differences in intellectual functioning have been found between children raised and educated in the kibbutz as compared to those raised in the city. Sex differences in the kibbutz populations are less pronounced. These findings indicating cross-cultural and intracultural influences challenge the validity of theories proposing purely biological bases for sex differences in intellectual abilities.