Genes, Psychology and Population History

Genome wide association studies (GWAS) are being increasingly used to identify genetic markers of variation in complex traits such as intelligence and education. However, GWAS are compromised by population stratification (PS) leading to spurious associations, and attempts to correct for them statistically are also proving to be inadequate. This suggests the need for a deeper understanding of the sources of such PS and how its roots in complex social and historical dynamics can seriously mislead interpretations from GWAS/PGS to social policy.