KQED's Forum Does the Label ‘Genius’ Do More Harm than Good?
Jul 16, 2025
Helen Lewis, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of 'The Genius Myth,' dives into the societal implications of the 'genius' label. She argues that this label is often disproportionately awarded to white men, enabling antisocial behavior and ignoring the power of collaboration. Lewis highlights the risks of equating genius with intelligence, pointing to biases in recognition and the cultural idolization of figures like tech innovators. She advocates for a broader understanding of creativity, emphasizing the need to appreciate collective achievements over solitary accolades.
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Genius Reflects Cultural Values
- Who is labeled a genius reveals much about cultural values, such as valuing innovation and technological progress.
- The shift from artists and poets to tech moguls shows changing societal priorities.
Genius Label Creates Dangerous Class
- The genius label creates a special class and often excuses antisocial behavior.
- The term can downgrade decent people who don't exhibit 'genius-like' problematic traits.
Einstein's Overlooked Collaborator Wife
- Albert Einstein's first wife, Mileva Maric, significantly contributed to his early work on relativity.
- Einstein's harsh contract with her and subsequent legacy management show how support roles are often hidden.
