Draft:International Society for Philosophical Enquiry

The International Society for Philosophical Enquiry (ISPE) is a non-profit, high-IQ society for individuals scoring at or above the 99.9th percentile on an intelligence test. Members, referred to as "Thousanders," are selected based on their exceptionally high test scores on certified intelligence tests.[1]

History

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Founded in 1974 by Christopher Harding, it was initially known as "The Thousand." The International Society for Philosophical Enquiry (ISPE) is the third-oldest high-IQ society globally.[1] It follows Mensa, the oldest, and Intertel, the second-oldest, both of which have lower entrance requirements. ISPE holds the distinction of being the oldest high-IQ society with an entry threshold at the 99.9th percentile.[2]

Organization and activities

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Members of the ISPE engage in fellowship, pursue personal goals, and provide mutual support and mentorship. The society's membership-level system and goals, outlined in its Charter, encourage members to use their abilities to benefit humanity. This focus on contributing to the greater good and personal enlightenment distinguishes ISPE from other high-IQ societies. Members often experience a renewed sense of purpose and form lasting friendships.[1]

Members follow a heirarchy based on tenure, accomplishments, and merits, and apply for promotions, which are reviewed and deliberated on by executive board members.[3] Ranks are as follows:

  • Associate (default designation)
  • Member
  • Fellow
  • Senior Fellow
  • Diplomat
  • Philosopher

The earliest rank for consideration of an executive board position is senior fellow.[3]

The Whiting Memorial Award, administered by the International Society for Philosophical Enquiry (ISPE), is a philanthropic fund given to individuals and organizations that exemplify the society's ideals.[4] It is not awarded annually. The award criteria include recognizing individuals who demonstrate exceptional intellect and contribute to society through advanced inquiry, original research, or creative work, as well as organizations that support intellectually gifted individuals through educational programs or counseling services.

Recent recipients include:

  • 2017: Professor Aaron D. Gitler, Ph.D., Stanford University School of Medicine
  • 2016: Dr. Edward Close and Dr. Vernon Neppe
  • 2012: Rev. Prof. Michael C. Kirwen
  • 2008: Dr. John J. Barnes
  • 2007: Stuart Allen
  • 2006: Dr. Thomas Barnett
  • 2003: Dr. David Pittman Johnson
  • 2002: Dee Breger
  • 2001: Friends of William Stafford
  • 1997: Alexandra York

References

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  1. ^ a b c "About - International Society for Philosophical Enquiry". www.thethousand.com. Retrieved 2024-08-11.
  2. ^ "International Society for Philosophical Enquiry". psiq.org. Retrieved 2024-08-11.
  3. ^ a b "Organization - International Society for Philosophical Enquiry". www.thethousand.com. Retrieved 2024-08-11.
  4. ^ "Whiting Memorial Award - International Society for Philosophical Enquiry". www.thethousand.com. Retrieved 2024-08-11.