You Are Not So Smart

287 - The Complexity of Genius - David Krakauer and Dean Simonton

May 13, 2024

Delving into the complexity of genius, the podcast features David Krakauer and Dean Simonton discussing the intricate nature of exceptional abilities. They explore the historical perception of genius, innate talent versus environmental factors, and the correlation between mental disorders and creativity. The conversation challenges traditional views on genius and highlights the importance of openness to experience and cognitive disinhibition in making groundbreaking discoveries.

01:04:57

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Episode guests

David Krakauer

Dean Keith Simonton

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Quick takeaways

Genius is defined as eliminating hard problems, not just solving them easily.

Intelligence comprises inference, coding, and strategy in tackling complex challenges.

Genius is not limited to specific domains but can manifest in diverse fields.

Deep dives

The Exploration of Genius and Complexity Science

The podcast dives into the elusive concept of genius, questioning the definition and the challenges of scientifically determining it. Through interviews with experts from the Santa Fe Institute, complexities of predictability in system-wide outcomes, and the mathematical nature of complexity science are uncovered.

Too high IQ can get in the way of genius

02:51

The Power of Razors in Problem-Solving

02:33

Definition of Intelligence, Stupidity, and Genius

00:38

Nature vs Nurture in Personal Traits

02:14

Introduction

3min

Unraveling the Enigma of Genius

25min

Exploring the Genius Checklist with a Renowned Psychologist

3min

The Transformative Effect of Claritin D on Allergy Symptoms

2min

Efficient Business Tools and Paradoxes of Genius

4min

Exploring the Nuances of Genius

10min

Exploring Creativity, Genius, and Cognitive Domains

21min

Exploring the Potential of Extraordinary Intelligence Through Curiosity and Motivation

4min

In this episode, we are exploring the complexity of the concept of "genius" with two experts on the topic. First you’ll hear from David Krakauer, the president of The Santa Fe Institute, a research institution in New Mexico dedicated to the study of complexity science, and then you'll hear from professor Dean Keith Simonton, one of the world’s leading researchers into the psychological mechanisms and influences that generate the phenomenon we so often refer to as "genius."

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