Triple Nine Society

The Triple Nine Society (TNS), founded in 1978, is a voluntary association of individuals who have scored at or above the 99.9th percentile on specific IQ tests (or similar) under supervised conditions, which generally correlates to an IQ of 149 or greater (assuming a standard deviation of 16). This contrasts with Mensa International, the more well-known and larger high IQ society which admits those who score at or above the 98th percentile, which currently correlates with an IQ score of 132 or greater on an IQ test such as the Cattell which has a standard deviation of 16. TNS also accepts 99.9th percentile scores on selected standardized tests as a basis for admission.

As of April 2008, TNS reports approximately 750 members from 30 countries, with most members residing in the United States. TNS publishes a journal entitled Vidya which contains articles authored by members on a variety of subjects. Members communicate with one another through email lists, a scheduled weekly IRC chat, and meet at arranged gatherings.

The Triple Nine Society was founded on democratic principles. The TNS says that it encourages the free expression of member views. The preamble to the Triple Nine Society constitution follows below:

Notable members

 * Richard Ballerand, security advisor
 * Robert Forster, actor
 * Ronald Hoeflin, philosopher
 * Mike Keefe, editorial cartoonist
 * Kirk Kirkpatrick, businessman
 * Dean Mills, union official, UK
 * Jack Schaeffer, musician