FARSIGHT History of the Future: Herman Kahn
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Jan 21, 2026 Delve into the life of Herman Kahn, a complex figure who shaped futurism and public policy. Explore his controversial persona as a genius and provocateur. Hear about his influence on scenario planning and the tumultuous journey from the RAND Corporation to founding the Hudson Institute. Discover his audacious views on nuclear war and the ethical implications of his work. Uncover connections to popular culture, including the inspiration behind Dr. Strangelove. Kahn's legacy is as fascinating as it is polarizing.
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High IQ And A Declined Los Alamos Invite
- Herman Kahn scored the highest recorded IQ on a military test after rushing it and then correcting himself.
- He was invited to Los Alamos but declined because the project details were withheld.
Futurist By Practice, Policy Analyst By Name
- Kahn denied the futurist label and framed himself as a policy analyst who must examine alternative futures.
- He used scenarios to bridge academic research and practical policymaking, not to predict but to prepare.
From RAND Eccentricity To Hudson's Chaos
- RAND fostered eccentric, freewheeling researchers with no formal dress code and flexible hours.
- Kahn left RAND after conflict over his controversial thermonuclear hypotheticals and founded the Hudson Institute.
