We have become very reliant on Internet, on basic things like electricity, obviously, on computers working.

One theory is that we have gotten better at IQ tests because we live in a more symbol rich environment. Flynn himself thinks that the spread of the scientific mode of reasoning has played a role.

And, of course, in the modern world, with the environmental movement, we're becoming even more aware of the connectivity of things, that something I do here actually does matter in Africa, that if I use too much of my carbon allowance, it seems to be that we are causing a great lack of rain in central and eastern Africa.