Why Are Individuals with High IQs Often Referred to as Geniuses? Is the Term Comprehensive?

In the annals of history, names like Plato, Mozart, Newton, Picasso, and Einstein are revered as geniuses. From inventing the potter’s wheel to creating the first fire and planting a seed, humanity's journey is replete with ingenious discoveries. Yet, having a high IQ is neither necessary nor sufficient to be considered a genius. This article delves into the distinction between high IQ and the term 'genius', illustrating how exceptional cognitive abilities, creativity, and problem-solving prowess set apart true geniuses.

The Myth of High IQ as the Sole Indicator of Genius

The term "genius" is often equated with a high IQ, which is the measurement of one's cognitive abilities compared to the average human. However, this oversimplification fails to capture the diverse and multifaceted nature of true genius. True geniuses exhibit a blend of high IQ and practical intelligence, as evidenced by the stories of individuals who demonstrate remarkable instinct and adaptability, even in the absence of formal education from prestigious institutions.

For instance, in the world of financial markets, individuals who excel frequently combine high IQ with practical intelligence. I recall meeting a trader at a conference who, despite lacking formal education from top institutions, showed remarkable instinct and adaptability. This underscores the fact that intelligence in any form can yield significant success.

Defining True Genius: Beyond High IQ

A high IQ measures one's ability to solve complex problems, reason logically, and remember information efficiently. However, true geniuses go beyond this, demonstrating exceptional creativity in formulating original ideas and solutions. The term "super" intelligent might be an exaggeration, as it demonizes the nuances and complexities of true genius, reducing it to a mere numerical score.

Genius encompasses not only intellectual capabilities but also profound creativity, adaptability, and the ability to transcend conventional boundaries. For example, the invention of the potter’s wheel, the discovery of fire, and the cultivation of crops all required innovative thinking and problem-solving skills—qualities that are hallmark of true genius.

Real-World Examples of True Genius

Consider Robert Kehres, a seasoned entrepreneur, fund manager, and quantitative trader. Robert's journey began at LIM Advisors, the longest continuously operating hedge fund in Asia, at the tender age of 20. He then became a quantitative trader at J.P. Morgan and, at 30, he founded 18 Salisbury Capital, a hedge fund. His entrepreneurial endeavors expanded further, with the founding of Dynamify, a B2B enterprise FB SaaS platform, and Yoho, a productivity SaaS platform. In 2023, Robert founded Petronius Capital, an equity derivatives proprietary trading firm, and KOTH Gaming, a fantasy sports gambling digital casino. Robert holds a BA in Physics and Computer Science from Cambridge and an MSc in Mathematics from Oxford.

Robert's exceptional journey exemplifies the blend of high IQ and practical intelligence that characterizes true genius. His success in various fields, from quantitative trading to entrepreneurship, highlights the importance of both intellectual prowess and practical know-how in achieving significant results.

In conclusion, while having a high IQ is certainly a remarkable attribute, it is not enough to be labeled a genius. True geniuses are defined by their exceptional creativity, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to transcend conventional boundaries. Understanding this distinction is crucial for recognizing and nurturing true talent in our world.

By examining the lives of individuals like Thomas Edison, who struggled in school but invented the light bulb, and Steve Jobs, who revolutionized technology with Apple, we see that true genius is a dynamic combination of intellectual and creative abilities. The term 'genius' should be reserved for those who not only excel in their field but also leave a lasting impact on society.