- The standard definition of a genius is "someone who has exceptional intellectual ability and originality." Arguing that this is the qualifying case for genius, ability requires the additional capability of original thought and creation. The avenue for genius varies from one person to the next. For example, it could be said that Mozart was a musical genius and Einstein was a genius of science. From politics to war, from art to chess, genius can be found in uncommonly brilliant minds across a wide spectrum.
- Fascinating discoveries and unparalleled insight were cornerstones of the early, earth-shaking geniuses. Sir Isaac Newton's understanding of the universe far exceeded the laws and theories of his time. However, looking still further back, Nicolaus Copernicus and Galileo Galilei set a much earlier standard of genius level comprehension. Amazingly, the incredible contributions to the sciences from the early geniuses came in spite of the rudimentary studies and complete lack of technology at the time. According to Live Science online, Newton himself is quoted as saying any accomplishments he had made was "by standing on the shoulders of giants."
- Our core understanding of the greatest ideals have been the developed insights of genius minds. Da Vinci drew sketches, or prototypes, of concepts that were centuries away from being invented.Marie Curie's brilliant thinking took her to radium research, which has led to nothing short of marvels in science and medicine. Her studies were used by arguably the greatest genius known among men, Albert Einstein. While those who can carry such multi-dimensional thinking to a point of action and result is a small percentage of the common population, the contributions they have made to society are immeasurable.
- The status of genius is respected and often rewarded. However, genius is not synonomous with morality. Some of the greatest historical horrors have been wrought from the minds of geniuses. Hitler has often been called "The Evil Genius." One man's lust for power led to a world war and an estimated 60 million deaths, done at the hands of his followers. Stalin, likewise obsessed by the need for power, once ruled the world's largest empire and preferred to do much of his murderous work himself. Their evil nature notwithstanding, the complete grasp of poltical, social and cultural awareness that these men possessed during their rise to power was nothing short of remarkable.
- Exactly what must happen genetically and/or environmentally to create genius remains the subject of much debate. It is the old "nature vs. nurture" argument. In 1869, Francis Galton wrote the "Hereditary Genius," formulating the argument that genius is "derived by inheritance." Galton's work examines commanders, poets, scientists, painters and other areas, drawing by comparison on the "hereditary transmission of physical gifts." Yet, there are inconsistencies in accepting the inherited genius theory. According to Discover online, William Shockley, winner of the 1956 Nobel Prize in physics, was rejected from a study of geniuses as a child because his I.Q. score was too low. Perhaps this simply suggests that even geniuses can be poor at testing. Nonetheless, these contradictions in heredity genius will, no doubt, keep the topic under study and up for discussion.
Comments
obviousness said
on 10/17/2009 summary: geniuses seem smarter. Correction: we are more intelligent.
obviousness said
on 10/17/2009 summary: geniuses seem smarter. Correction: we are more intelligent.