Intelligence comes in many forms, but when it comes to measuring brainpower, IQ tests are often the go-to method. These tests gauge how well people can solve problems, use logic, and understand complex ideas. While IQ isn’t everything, it’s fascinating to look at those individuals who have scored off the charts.
In this list, I’ll introduce you to people with some of the world’s highest recorded IQs.
Marilyn vos Savant – The Guinness Record Holder
Marilyn Vos Savant is famous for having the highest recorded IQ at 228. She’s best known for her “Ask Marilyn” column in Parade magazine, where she answers tough questions from readers. Interestingly, Marilyn has faced criticism for some of her answers but always defends her reasoning. Despite her high IQ, she believes that intelligence isn’t just about test scores but also about how you use your brain in real life.
Terence Tao – The Math Prodigy
Terence Tao is a math genius who started university at just 9 years old. He became a professor at UCLA when he was only 24, making him the youngest person to hold that position. Furthermore, Tao has won numerous awards for his groundbreaking work in mathematics. His ability to solve complex math problems has earned him the nickname “The Mozart of Math.”
Kim Ung-Yong – The Early Achiever
Kim Ung-Yong could speak four languages by the time he was two years old. He started attending university classes at three and completed his Ph.D. in physics at 15. However, Kim later decided to live a more normal life and became a civil engineer. He believes that happiness is more important than being recognized for high intelligence.
Garry Kasparov – The Chess Master
Garry Kasparov became the youngest world chess champion at 22 years old. His strategic thinking and memory skills have given him an estimated IQ of 190. Nevertheless, Kasparov is also known for his match against IBM’s supercomputer Deep Blue, which he initially won but lost in a rematch. Today, he uses his intelligence to write books and engage in political activism.
Judit Polgar – The Chess Queen
Judit Polgar is considered the strongest female chess player in history. She became a grandmaster at just 15 years old, breaking Bobby Fischer’s previous record. Moreover, Polgar has defeated many world champions, including Garry Kasparov. Her success in chess demonstrates that high intelligence isn’t limited by gender.
Andrew Wiles – The Puzzle Solver
Andrew Wiles is the mathematician who finally solved Fermat’s Last Theorem, a problem that had stumped experts for over 300 years. His dedication to solving this puzzle took him seven years of secret work. Consequently, Wiles’ achievement is considered one of the most important mathematical discoveries of the 20th century. His persistence shows that a high IQ combined with determination can lead to groundbreaking results.
Evangelos Katsioulis – The Multi-Talented Doctor
Evangelos Katsioulis is a Greek psychiatrist with an IQ of 198. He has multiple degrees in medicine, philosophy, and psychology. Moreover, Katsioulis founded the World Intelligence Network, an organization for high-IQ individuals. His diverse interests demonstrate how high intelligence can be applied to various fields.
Nathan Leopold – The Infamous Genius
Nathan Leopold had an IQ of 200 but became infamous for his involvement in a murder case. He and his friend Richard Loeb committed a crime they thought was “perfect” due to their high intelligence. However, they were caught and sentenced to life in prison. Leopold’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the misuse of intelligence.
Christopher Michael Langan – The Cowboy Genius
Christopher Michael Langan is a self-taught intellectual with an IQ between 190 and 210. He’s worked as a construction worker, cowboy, and bouncer while developing his own “Theory of Everything.” However, Langan has struggled to get his ideas accepted by the academic community. His experience highlights the challenges faced by those with high IQ but unconventional backgrounds.
Ainan Cawley – The Chemistry Whiz
Ainan Cawley passed his O-level chemistry exam at age 7, a test usually taken by 16-year-olds. He gave his first lecture on chemistry at a Singapore Science Centre when he was 6. Furthermore, Cawley is also a talented pianist and composer. His diverse talents show how high intelligence often comes with multiple gifts.
Edith Stern – The IBM Innovator
Edith Stern was reading at 11 months old and doing advanced algebra by 4. She entered college at 12 and later became a top inventor at IBM. Moreover, Stern holds over 100 patents for her technological innovations. Her career demonstrates how high intelligence can drive technological progress.
Ruth Lawrence – The Math and Physics Prodigy
Ruth Lawrence entered Oxford University at 12 and graduated with a first-class degree in mathematics at 13. She then completed her Ph.D. in mathematics at 17. Furthermore, Lawrence became a professor at the University of Michigan at 19. Her rapid academic progress shows the potential of highly intelligent individuals when given the right opportunities.
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