Arthur Jensen, born on August 24, 1923, was a prominent American psychologist and writer, renowned for his contributions to the fields of psychometrics and differential psychology. As a professor of educational psychology at the University of California, Berkeley, he dedicated his career to understanding the complexities of human behavior and the factors that contribute to individual differences.
Jensen's work primarily focused on the hereditarian perspective within the nature versus nurture debate, advocating for the significant role of genetics in shaping behavioral traits, including intelligence and personality. His research led to the publication of over four hundred scientific papers in refereed journals, establishing him as a leading figure in his field.
Despite his academic achievements, Jensen's conclusions regarding race-based differences in IQ sparked considerable controversy and debate. His positions challenged prevailing views and ignited discussions about the implications of genetic influences on intelligence, making him a polarizing figure in psychology.