I have to disagree. While no child prodigy, I did learn to read at age 4, currently read about 2K words/min with 95% comprehension, don't own a television, and have read books about the original Constitutional Convention, the 5th Marines, the use of subs during the Philippines campaign of WWII, large chunks of Escoffier, and Plato's Republic in the last few days, along with a regular reserve job.
I get along great with those less educated and able. I have to, they are my airmen and leadership.
I read web synopsis of everything that each is interested in, so we have chit-chat, and toss in a few of the things that I care about.
You don't have to be smart to be good, and you don't have to be good to be smart, but good AND smart is a great combination.
I'm grateful for a mom that taught me to read early, a dad the put me in private school, and teachers that let me reach my limits. I'm also grateful for a USAF that taught me some manners and management skills.
/john
I guess there is no accounting for individual variance. I become extremely frustrated with individuals who aren't my intellectual equals. When I'm unable to convey a thought, or when I find myself searching in vain for words that they're understand, I'm just banging my own head againt the wall. I can't count the women I only took around the block once because I couldn't bare another discussion with them.