There is a belief that scientists are some sort of monks or saints that are not corruptible or somehow incapable of political or other types of bias. As if an extra 20 or 30 iq points might make you more virtuous or objective! I think a lot of stupid and average intellect people with low or no scientific training believe this.  High IQ is kinda like a parlor trick. It makes you very good at some things but it is not assurance of superior function in all areas. Scientists are just people, they are flawed.  Also we have lowered the bar in the sciences in recent decades. I will be the first to admit women do not make the best scientists on average. An advanced degree is just not and assurance of high intelligence now, if it ever was.