An Honest Appraisal of Donald Trump's Cognitive Abilities
The question of Donald Trump's IQ and cognitive abilities has long been a topic of public speculation and debate. Many who follow him closely have offered their estimations, ranging from claims of low IQ scores to more generous assessments. This article aims to provide an honest and well-researched appraisal of his cognitive abilities based on available evidence and personal observations.
Initial Assessment and Public Perception
Initial reports have placed Donald Trump's IQ as low as 85. ORANGE FATTYS, a figure often cited, places him at around 85, suggesting that his cognitive abilities were limited by his age or shoe size. While this is a humorous and subjective measure, it underscores the need to critically evaluate such claims.
Peak Mental Acuity and Decline
Based on personal observations and statements by his teachers, it is hypothesized that at his peak mental acuity, Trump's IQ was around 100 or possibly 105. This range is considered average and reflects a level of cognitive ability that would support the basic tasks required of him, such as managing his businesses and political campaigns.
Since 2016 and especially after 2020, there have been noticeable declines in Trump's cognitive performance. This decline is evident in his public speeches, where his vocabulary and reasoning appear to have diminished. Estimates place his current cognitive abilities around 85-90, reflecting a reduction in mental acuity and a shift towards more impulsive and reflexive thinking. Critics argue that his "cleverness" has transformed into low cunning, characterized by a heightened self-protection and reliance on personal attacks as a defense mechanism.
Anecdotal Evidence and Personal Decisions
A notable anecdote is the story of Trump's experience with the MOCA test, which he mistakenly believed to be an IQ test. The Mini-Mental State Examination (MOCA) is typically used to assess cognitive function in elderly individuals and those with head injuries. His misunderstanding of this test highlights his lack of understanding of cognitive assessments, further suggesting that he may not possess the cognitive acuity that an average person would.
Despite these cognitive limitations, it is important to note that Trump is not mentally deficient. His vocabulary is generally below average, and he makes poor decisions about his business ventures, often driven by impulse and with poor self-control. His inability to follow complex briefings and to hold several new ideas simultaneously demonstrates a cognitive limitation that may impede his decision-making processes.
Conclusion and Implications
The overall assessment places Donald Trump's cognitive abilities in the mid to high 90s, possibly reaching as high as 140. This range is considered well above average and reflects a level of cognitive acuity that enables him to function in complex environments, such as politics and business. However, his cognitive tendencies have transformed over time, leading to a more impulsive and less calculated approach to decision-making and public communication.
While his cognitive abilities are not enough to be considered a genius, they are certainly not of the lowest levels either. As a politician and businessman, Trump's cognitive limitations have shaped his public persona and political strategies, often leading to misinterpretations and poor decision-making.