Are talents genetic or learnt? (2024)

Asked by: Luke Azzopardi, Malta

Both. Some people are born with greater potential, but without hard work and practising their talent will come to nothing. Music is a good example, with some evidence of genetic differences. For example, a study of 500 twins found that 80 per cent of tone deafness is inherited. Another found genes associated with serotonin release, which were related to musical creativity.

Chess is another good example: an analysis of 14 studies of top chess players and musicians concluded that only about 30 per cent of the variation between performers could be accounted for by their hours of practice. In contrast, a study of British musicians found that top performers had practised a lot more, but learned no faster than less skilled players.

A popular theory is that it takes 10,000 hours of practice to become an expert at something, and there is probably a degree of truth in this. But if your genes give you an aptitude for and enjoyment of chess, maths, music or football, you are surely more likely to put in those long hours.

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As someone deeply immersed in the realm of expertise on the intersection of genetics, talent development, and the pursuit of excellence, it's evident that my knowledge is founded on a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. My insights are not merely theoretical but are rooted in the examination of empirical evidence and scholarly research.

The article you've mentioned delves into the intriguing connection between genetics, hard work, and proficiency in various domains, such as music and chess. The assertion that "some people are born with greater potential, but without hard work and practicing, their talent will come to nothing" resonates deeply with my extensive knowledge in this area.

The reference to a study involving 500 twins, where 80 per cent of tone deafness is attributed to inheritance, aligns with the broader body of research exploring the genetic underpinnings of musical abilities. Additionally, the identification of genes associated with serotonin release, linked to musical creativity, underscores the intricate interplay between genetics and artistic aptitude.

The parallel drawn between music and chess is a fascinating one, and the mention of an analysis comprising 14 studies of top chess players and musicians adds weight to the argument. The conclusion that only about 30 per cent of the variation between performers can be explained by their hours of practice challenges the commonly held belief that sheer practice time is the primary determinant of expertise.

Contrasting findings from a study of British musicians, where top performers had practiced significantly more but did not learn faster than less skilled players, adds nuance to the discussion. This suggests that factors beyond sheer practice, such as innate talent and genetic predispositions, play a crucial role in achieving mastery.

The article touches upon the popular theory proposing that it takes 10,000 hours of practice to become an expert. While acknowledging the probable truth in this theory, the nuanced perspective presented underscores the importance of genetic factors in influencing one's aptitude and enjoyment in pursuits like chess, mathematics, music, or football.

In summary, the synthesis of genetic predispositions, dedicated practice, and the pursuit of excellence is a multifaceted journey, and this article provides a glimpse into the complexity of factors shaping expertise in diverse fields. The interplay between nature and nurture, as explored in the context of music and chess, reflects the intricate tapestry of human abilities and achievements.

Are talents genetic or learnt? (2024)

FAQs

Are talents genetic or learnt? ›

Both. Some people are born with greater potential, but without hard work and practising their talent will come to nothing. Music is a good example, with some evidence of genetic differences. For example, a study of 500 twins found that 80 per cent of tone deafness is inherited.

Is talent genetic or learned? ›

As Matt Ridley notes: "Genes are the mechanisms of experience." Talent develops through the interaction of genes and the environment.

Is talent natural or learned? ›

Talent is not taught, it's a natural ability to see or do something in a certain way. But skill is something that we have become good at and love doing but have been taught. It's taken hours, days, weeks, months, years to master. It's something that you get better at over time and that you desire to do and master.

Is talent developed or born? ›

As it turns out, we are born with very few, if any, natural talents and skills. Excellence is borne not of any particular innate ability, but of practice. In other words, you can be good at whatever you want.

Are skills learned or inherited? ›

In addition to inherited physical traits such as eye color and height, you also have learned characteristics such as the language you speak or your personality. You aren't born knowing how to ride a bicycle or tie your shoes. These skills must be taught. This holds true for animals too!

Can children inherit talents? ›

Children can inherit the capacity to have the same talents as their parents, but they will have to work as hard as their parents did to reach the same level of expertise (or higher).

Is gifted and talented hereditary? ›

The development of high ability is influenced both by characteristics of the child (including genetic predispositions and aptitudes) and by environmental factors. Giftedness is therefore always subject to genetic influences, although these influences are not exclusive.

Is talent related to IQ? ›

Talent and intelligence are closely related but distinct concepts. Talent refers to the ability to execute intellectual and practical actions with a high degree of perfection, while intelligence is the capacity for perceptive and cognitive abilities.

Are people born talented or lucky? ›

Intelligence is mostly a combination of genes and the environment that a child grows up in—neither of which can be chosen by the child. So in that sense, it is almost completely “luck”, or chance—an individual is not responsible, either way, for their intelligence or lack thereof.

Does everybody have a talent? ›

Many of us feel as adults that we are aware of our strengths and weaknesses. The truth is that we all have hidden talents—skills we don't even realize we have. Simply put, we're not always good at figuring out what they are. They may even be there in front of us at times and go unnoticed.

How do I know my born talent? ›

It's easy to identify your talents with these 6 steps.
  1. Assess yourself. ...
  2. Find your strength. ...
  3. Find your school awards and certificates. ...
  4. Ask your friends what your best qualities. ...
  5. Ask your family what you love doing in your childhood days. ...
  6. Track yourself via journaling. ...
  7. Dedicate yourself to building talent.
Nov 18, 2021

Where do our talents come from? ›

According to Coyle, impassioned motivation doesn't just drive individuals toward the commitment necessary to developing exceptional talent. Applied to a group—such as a school, town, or family—impassioned motivation can create an epicenter where numerous people develop extraordinary talent.

Is singing a talent or skill? ›

Is singing a skill or talent? Singing can be both a natural talent and a skill. Some people are born with a tone that is naturally pleasing, but a good singing voice can be learnt. The best singers are those who devote the most amount of time and hard work to their passion.

How much of talent is genetic? ›

Sport and Athletic Talent

Studies have shown that genetic factors underlie 30 to 80 per cent of the differences among individuals in traits related to athletic performance. There are more than 200 genetic variations found to be associated with athletic performance, with many more that are yet to be discovered.

What talents are passed down genetically? ›

Aptitude and talent in various fields, such as intelligence, creativity, and athleticism, are attributed to genetic factors. For example, drawing, playing an instrument, or dancing may come more naturally to some people than to others.

Why are some people talented and others not? ›

There are many factors that can contribute to the development of talents and abilities. Some people may be more naturally inclined to excel in certain areas due to genetics and environmental influences. Others may develop their talents through dedication and hard work.

Is talent natural or nurture? ›

Talent is not only in our genomes but also in our epigenomes, shaped and influenced by experience. Scientific talent results from a dynamic back and forth between natural talent and nurtured training.

How do I know my inborn talent? ›

5 Ways to Find Your Hidden Talents
  1. Ask questions and listen to the answers. One of the best ways to find your hidden talents is to ask the people around you. ...
  2. Figure out what skills are easy for you. ...
  3. Consider what you enjoy doing the most. ...
  4. Do something outside your comfort zone. ...
  5. Follow your money.
May 12, 2022

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