Gen Z Dubbed 'First Dumber Generation' in Modern History

Neuroscientist says Gen Z scores lower on cognitive tests than previous generations

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

According to a top neuroscientist, the generation born between 1997 and 2010, known as Gen Z, is the first generation in modern history to score lower on standardized academic tests than the generation before it. The data shows Gen Z underperformed on measures of attention, memory, literacy, numeracy, executive function, and general IQ compared to previous generations.

Why it matters

The findings raise concerns about the cognitive abilities and overall well-being of Gen Z, with the generation also experiencing higher rates of mental health issues compared to older generations. Experts argue this trend could have significant implications for the future as Gen Z enters the workforce and takes on leadership roles.

The details

The neuroscientist, Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath, 43, told The New York Post that 'They're the first generation in modern history to score lower on standardized academic tests than the one before it.' He added that 'the smarter people think they are, the dumber they actually are.' The data shows Gen Z underperformed on measures of attention, memory, literacy, numeracy, executive function, and general IQ.

  • The generation being studied is those born between 1997 and 2010.

The players

Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath

A 43-year-old neuroscientist who conducted research showing Gen Z is the first generation in modern history to score lower on standardized academic tests than the previous generation.

Steven Crowder

A conservative political commentator who discussed the findings on his show 'Louder with Crowder'.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“They're the first generation in modern history to score lower on standardized academic tests than the one before it. And to make matters worse, most of these young people are overconfident about how smart they are. The smarter people think they are, the dumber they actually are.”

— Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath, Neuroscientist (The New York Post)

“Everything they have been doing for the last decade, we have to do the opposite, and we have to do it as quickly as possible. Gen Z is dumber and, more importantly, they are unstable.”

— Steven Crowder, Political Commentator (Louder with Crowder)

The takeaway

The findings about Gen Z's cognitive underperformance compared to previous generations raise serious concerns about the future, as this cohort enters the workforce and takes on leadership roles. Experts argue urgent action is needed to address the root causes and help ensure the next generation is equipped to succeed.