[Tom H.]

This is good information.

Of course it appears that the scale of reference in this thread started with D&D 5e.

Low D&D Int scores probably represent more ability than the equivalent GURPS IQ score.

For example, a D&D 6 or 7 Int is just a -2 modifier.

I don't think I would classify that as bad as the said GM above did.

I don't have the 5e Monster Manual, but I did a quick check in my 3.5e one.

Many animals get a 2 Int, even monkeys.

And things like vermin (giant insects) get no intelligence (i.e. a dash); they are "mindless."

So yes, it appears that in D&D humans can use more of the low end before becoming animalistic.

P.S. Just saw this in 3.5e Monster Manual: "Any creature with an Intelligence score of 3 or higher understands at least one language," defaulting to Common.