An interesting study shows that people who are good at discerning details in a visual landscape also tend to have higher IQs. The implication seems to be that if you are able to focus on only relevant details that may be more important than just having a big brain.

Neuroscientist Steven Rose believes that sensory focus is an important attribute but perhaps not an absolute measure of intelligence.

A sample of the test is available with the original USA Today article.

selective focus test article