Science Friday What The Label Of ‘Genius’ Tells Us About Our Society
20 snips
Sep 15, 2025 
Helen Lewis, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of 'The Genius Myth,' delves into the societal implications of the label 'genius.' She challenges traditional notions of genius tied to IQ and innovation, emphasizing the importance of personal narratives and collaborative efforts. The discussion also highlights the historical marginalization of women in science and critiques how accolades like the Nobel Prize can overshadow collective achievements. Ultimately, Lewis calls for a broader understanding of intelligence beyond mere numbers.
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Genius Is A Social Label
- We often award the label 'genius' based on stories or qualities society admires rather than raw intelligence.
- Helen Lewis argues personal narratives and cultural values shape who becomes labeled a genius.
Elon Musk And The Doge Example
- Helen Lewis uses Elon Musk's Doge (US government contract) episode as a modern example of misplaced genius.
- She shows how technical brilliance didn't solve political complexity and left participants 'bruised.'
Discoveries Are Often Inevitable
- Scientific discoveries often occur when conditions are ripe, not solely because of a lone genius.
- Lewis cites a 1922 paper showing simultaneous, independent discoveries as evidence.
