Intelligence Quotient (IQ) has long been a measure of intellectual capability. Over the years, several individuals have stood out for their extraordinary intelligence, often contributing significantly to science, mathematics, and the arts. Here, we explore the top 10 people with the highest IQs in history, celebrating their remarkable intellect and achievements.
1. William James Sidis
IQ Estimate: 250-300
William James Sidis was an American child prodigy with an estimated IQ between 250 and 300. Born in 1898, Sidis displayed extraordinary mathematical and linguistic abilities from a young age. By the age of 11, he was attending Harvard University, where he lectured on four-dimensional bodies. Despite his immense intelligence, Sidis chose to live a private life, away from the public eye, and worked on various projects, including writing books under pseudonyms.
2. Terence Tao
IQ Estimate: 225-230
Terence Tao, an Australian-American mathematician, is considered one of the greatest mathematical minds of his generation. With an estimated IQ of 225-230, Tao’s contributions to mathematics are extensive. He received his Ph.D. from Princeton University at the age of 20 and became a professor at UCLA shortly after. Tao has made significant advances in various fields, including harmonic analysis, partial differential equations, and additive combinatorics.
3. Marilyn vos Savant
IQ Estimate: 228
Marilyn vos Savant, an American magazine columnist, author, and lecturer, was recognized in the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest recorded IQ, with an estimate of 228. She gained fame through her “Ask Marilyn” column in Parade magazine, where she answers readers’ questions on various topics, showcasing her exceptional intelligence and problem-solving abilities.
4. Johann Goethe
IQ Estimate: 210-225
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, a German writer, poet, and statesman, is estimated to have had an IQ between 210 and 225. Goethe’s literary works, including “Faust,” are celebrated for their depth and complexity. He also made significant contributions to science, particularly in the study of plant morphology and the theory of colors, demonstrating his multifaceted genius.
5. Leonardo da Vinci
IQ Estimate: 180-220
Leonardo da Vinci, the quintessential Renaissance man, is estimated to have had an IQ between 180 and 220. His contributions to art, science, and engineering are unparalleled. Known for masterpieces such as “The Last Supper” and “Mona Lisa,” da Vinci’s notebooks also reveal his advanced understanding of anatomy, physics, and mechanics, showcasing his extraordinary intellect and creativity.
6. Isaac Newton
IQ Estimate: 190-200
Sir Isaac Newton, an English mathematician, physicist, and astronomer, is estimated to have had an IQ between 190 and 200. Newton’s work laid the foundation for classical mechanics with his laws of motion and universal gravitation. His contributions to mathematics, particularly calculus, and his investigations into the nature of light and color, cement his legacy as one of the greatest scientific minds in history.
7. Nikola Tesla
IQ Estimate: 160-310
Nikola Tesla, a Serbian-American inventor and electrical engineer, is estimated to have had an IQ between 160 and 310. Tesla’s innovations in electrical engineering, including the development of alternating current (AC) power systems, have had a profound impact on modern technology. His visionary ideas and inventions, many of which were ahead of their time, demonstrate his remarkable intellect and creative genius.
8. Albert Einstein
IQ Estimate: 160-190
Albert Einstein, the theoretical physicist known for his theory of relativity, is estimated to have had an IQ between 160 and 190. Einstein’s contributions to physics, including the famous equation E=mc², revolutionized our understanding of energy, mass, and the fabric of the universe. His intellectual curiosity and innovative thinking have made him an enduring symbol of genius.
9. Stephen Hawking
IQ Estimate: 160
Stephen Hawking, a British theoretical physicist and cosmologist, is estimated to have had an IQ of 160. Despite being diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at a young age, Hawking made groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of black holes and the nature of the universe. His book “A Brief History of Time” brought complex scientific concepts to the general public, showcasing his exceptional intellect and ability to communicate ideas.
10. Hypatia of Alexandria
IQ Estimate: 170-210
Hypatia, a philosopher, mathematician, and astronomer in ancient Alexandria, is estimated to have had an IQ between 170 and 210. As one of the first women to make significant contributions to mathematics and science, Hypatia’s work included advancements in algebra and geometry. Her intellectual achievements and tragic death symbolize the enduring struggle for knowledge and the pursuit of truth.
Conclusion
The individuals highlighted here represent the pinnacle of human intelligence and achievement. Their contributions have shaped the course of history, advancing our understanding of the world and inspiring future generations. While IQ is just one measure of intelligence, the extraordinary minds on this list have demonstrated the profound impact that exceptional intellect can have on society.
