Bill Bryson raises an intriguing question about the potential decline of intelligence among society as a whole. He suggests that if everyone is deteriorating in their cognitive abilities at a similar pace, we might not recognize this decline. The lack of noticeable changes in IQ scores could mask the reality of diminished judgment and poor taste that affect our daily lives. This poses a challenge for self-awareness in a collective decline.

This thought prompts reflection on how we evaluate intelligence and cultural standards. Rather than relying solely on IQ tests, we should consider other aspects of cognitive functioning that might be faltering. The concern is that as society evolves, subtle shifts in our decision-making skills and aesthetic preferences could signify a broader decline that goes unnoticed, inviting a deeper examination of what intelligence and refinement truly mean.