Value intelligence above all else? You could be a “Sapiosexual”

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“Sapiosexual is a neologism word (recently constructed word) that has come into common usage; especially on social networking sites where some people are self-identifying as sapiosexual. Origins: From Latin root sapien, wise or intelligent, and Latin sexualis, relating to the sexes.”

Sound intriguing? We certainly think so. If you’re the kind of person that sees intelligence as the trait of all traits, you could be a sapiosexual. Or at least to some extent. While at first glance it can seem a little clinical, experts maintain that “sapiosexuality” isn’t just about IQ. Instead, it’s about engaging in meaningful conversations, bonding over shared interests and sharing your life with someone who enriches your life for the better.

The nitty gritty

So is sapiosexuality just a concept, or is it actually a genuine sexual orientation? At the end of the day it all comes down to how intelligence makes you feel. While plenty of people do value intelligence as a personal trait, studies suggest that over 8% of people are sexually aroused by another person’s intellect. And that makes all the difference. If you fall into the latter category, chances are you’re a bona fide sapiosexual.

Dr Gignac, a co-author of a recent sapiosexual study at the University of Western Australia explains, “The emergence of the popular culture notion of a sapiosexual, an individual who finds high levels of intelligence (IQ) the most sexually attractive characteristic in a person, suggests that a high IQ may be a genuinely sexually attractive trait, at least for some people.”

Turned on by intelligence

Together with his team he quizzed a group of participants on their attitudes towards certain statements, including “Listening to someone speak very intelligently arouses me sexually” and “It would excite me sexually to have an intellectually stimulating conversation with a potential partner”. Interestingly, around 8% of participants answered yes.

It’s an interesting concept, and one that definitely applies to romantic relationships sparked later on in life. Age can often put things into perspective, and often characteristics like intelligence begin to trump more superficial traits such as money and good looks.

Want to chime in on the sapiosexual banter? We’d love to hear your thoughts, opinions and experiences so go ahead and leave a comment.