Mensa's constitution lists three purposes: to identify and to foster human
intelligence for the benefit of humanity; to encourage research into the nature, characteristics, and uses of intelligence; and to provide a stimulating intellectual and social environment for its members.
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To this end, the organization is also involved with programs for
gifted children,
literacy, and
scholarships, and it also holds numerous "gatherings" (see
below).
Interestingly, at Mensa's 50th Anniversary, Dr. Ware, one of the founders, addressed Mensans by stating that he hoped that “Mensa will have a role in society when it gets through the ages of infancy and adolescence.” He also said, “I do get disappointed that so many members spend so much time solving
puzzles,” expressing his desire for Mensans instead to be solving some of the world's problems.
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