61 People with the Highest IQ Ever – Ranking the Smartest People in History

Have you ever wondered who the smartest people in the world are? Throughout history, there have been individuals whose incredible IQ has amazed everyone around them.

Some of them made groundbreaking discoveries, created timeless works of art, or solved problems that no one else could.

This list looks at the people with the highest IQs ever recorded. But it is not just about numbers—it is about the incredible stories behind these brilliant minds.

These are people who used their intelligence in unique ways to change the world, whether through science, writing, art, or even playing chess.

You will recognize some names, like Einstein, da Vinci, and Newton, while others might be new to you. Each of them shows us how amazing the human mind can be.

Let us take a look at these 60 remarkable people, ranked by their IQs, and learn more about their incredible achievements.

1. Adragon De Mello: The Truth Behind the Unbelievable IQ of 400

Adragon De Mello’s name often pops up when people talk about the smartest humans in history. His supposed IQ of 400 is jaw-dropping, but is it actually true?

Adragon became famous as a child prodigy who graduated college at just 11 years old, but the claim about his IQ has always been surrounded by questions.

• Adragon earned a degree in computational mathematics when most kids his age were still learning basic algebra.
• The world was fascinated by his story, and headlines often highlighted his “400 IQ.”
• Despite the hype, there is no official documentation or test results to back up the IQ claim.
• Adragon later faced personal struggles, showing that even prodigies deal with challenges like everyone else.

2. YoungHoon Kim: The Highest Recorded IQ of 276

YoungHoon Kim is often named as the person with the highest IQ ever recorded—an incredible 276.

The South Korean intelligence specialist has left many stunned by his achievements, but is his IQ score the real deal?

• Kim’s IQ of 276 was recognized by the Giga Society, a group for people with IQs over 190.
• He has excelled in competitive fields like memory championships and speed-reading contests.
• His IQ comes from specialized, high-range tests, which are not widely recognized or standardized.
• Kim serves as an advisor on intelligence-related topics, showcasing his real-world brilliance.

3. Marnen Laibow-Koser: A Musical Genius with an IQ of 268

Marnen Laibow-Koser, with a reported IQ of 268, is not just a genius—he is also a musical prodigy.

He earned this astonishing IQ score as a child, but what makes his story so interesting is how he used his talents.

• Marnen started composing music and studying advanced concepts by the age of three.
• He holds multiple degrees in music, including one from the New England Conservatory.
• Today, he works as a composer, musician, and web developer.
• His reported IQ score is based on early projections and is not verified by modern standards.

4. Ainan Cawley: A Multitalented Prodigy with an IQ of 263

Ainan Cawley made headlines as a child prodigy with an IQ of 263, and his talents spread across multiple fields.

From chemistry to music, Ainan’s abilities seemed limitless, but his story is about more than just his IQ.

• Ainan started studying chemistry at Singapore Polytechnic when he was just eight years old.
• He gave lectures on complex topics like acids and alkaloids as a child.
• While his IQ is impressive, like many child prodigies, he faced challenges in balancing expectations and personal growth.

5. William James Sidis: The “Smartest Man Who Ever Lived”

William James Sidis, often called the smartest person in history, reportedly had an IQ between 250 and 300.

His life was filled with extraordinary accomplishments, but also struggles that make his story both inspiring and tragic:

• Harvard at 11: William enrolled in Harvard University at an age when most kids are still in middle school.
• He wrote about topics ranging from mathematics to cosmology and even invented a new language.
• Sidis lived a quiet, modest life and avoided the spotlight despite his genius.
• The 300 IQ claim is debated, with no solid evidence confirming the exact number.

6. Terence Tao: The Mozart of Math with an IQ of 225–230

Terence Tao, often called the “Mozart of Math,” is a mathematical prodigy with a reported IQ of 225–230.

His journey from a child genius to one of the most respected mathematicians in the world is nothing short of extraordinary.

• Tao started learning calculus at age seven and began taking college-level courses soon after.
• By age 20, he had completed his PhD and joined UCLA’s faculty, becoming one of the youngest professors ever.
• Tao has contributed to fields like number theory and harmonic analysis, publishing over 300 research papers.

7. Marilyn vos Savant: The Highest Recorded IQ for a Woman

Marilyn vos Savant gained global fame when she was listed in the Guinness Book of World

Records as having the highest recorded IQ for a woman—an astonishing 228.

Her story is a mix of intellect, fame, and controversy.

• Marilyn’s IQ was recorded in her teens using the Stanford-Binet test.
• She became famous for her “Ask Marilyn” column, where she answered complex questions for decades.
• She faced backlash from academics when she correctly solved this famous probability puzzle, proving her brilliance.
• Guinness stopped listing IQ records in 1990, citing the test’s limitations.

8. Christopher Hirata: A Physics Prodigy with an IQ of 225

Christopher Hirata is a physics prodigy whose IQ of 225 is matched only by his groundbreaking work in science.

From NASA to academia, Hirata has made his mark as a true genius.

• At just 14, Hirata became the youngest gold medalist at the International Physics Olympiad.
• By 16, he was working with NASA on colonization projects for Mars.
• Hirata earned his doctorate in physics from Princeton, specializing in dark energy and astrophysics.

9. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe: A Genius of Literature and Science

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, with an estimated IQ of 210–225, was a true Renaissance man.

Known for his literary masterpieces and scientific contributions, Goethe’s genius extended far beyond writing.

• His play Faust remains one of the most celebrated works in Western literature.
• Goethe made significant contributions to color theory and early evolutionary studies.
• He excelled in fields like metaphysics, biology, and chemistry, proving his diverse intelligence.

10. Kim Ung-Yong: The Prodigy with an IQ of 210

Kim Ung-Yong is often described as one of the most brilliant minds in history, with an IQ of 210.

His early life was filled with incredible achievements, but his story also highlights the challenges of extraordinary talent/

• By age four, Kim spoke four languages and could solve complex math problems.
• He was invited to study in the U.S. and worked for NASA at a very young age.
• Kim left NASA to return to South Korea, choosing a simpler life as a professor.

11. William Shakespeare: A Literary Genius with an IQ of 210

William Shakespeare is celebrated as one of the greatest writers in history, but his reported IQ of 210 adds another layer to his legendary status.

His works have shaped literature and language for centuries, but there is more to his genius.

• Shakespeare wrote 38 plays, 154 sonnets, and numerous poems, many of which are still studied today.
• His influence on the English language includes hundreds of phrases still in use, such as “break the ice” and “heart of gold.”
• His IQ is based on his literary output and ability to address complex themes, though it is speculative since no tests existed in his time.

12. Edith Stern: A Mathematician with an IQ of 200+

Edith Stern, with her IQ reported as above 200, is a shining example of how exceptional intelligence can lead to groundbreaking achievements.

• By age five, she had read the entire Encyclopedia Britannica.
• Stern was in college while most kids her age were starting middle school.
• She made significant contributions to applied mathematics and was recognized as a pioneer in her field.
• Her exact IQ score is not publicly documented, but her accomplishments suggest a truly extraordinary intellect.

13. Michael Grost: A Young Genius with an IQ of 200+

Michael Grost amazed the world when he began college at Michigan State University at the age of 10.

• He graduated from college at 15 and earned a PhD in mathematics by 23.
• Grost’s interests range from artificial intelligence to classical music and mystery writing.
• While his IQ score is estimated to be over 200, no standardized tests have confirmed this.

14. Dylan Jones: The Neurosurgeon Prodigy with an IQ of 200

Dylan Jones gained attention for his reported IQ of 200 and his incredible academic achievements at a young age.

• College at 11: Dylan enrolled in the Colorado School of Mines and earned a degree in math and computer science.
• He later pursued a career in neurosurgery, studying at the University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine.

15. Blaise Pascal: The Philosopher and Mathematician with an IQ of 180–195

Blaise Pascal, with an estimated IQ of 180–195, was a true pioneer in science, philosophy, and mathematics.

His contributions have shaped modern thought and technology in profound ways.

• Pascal developed one of the first mechanical calculators and made lasting contributions to probability theory.
• His work Pensées explored human nature, faith, and reason, blending science and spirituality.
• Pascal’s inventions ranged from hydraulic presses to the syringe, showing his practical side.
• His IQ estimate comes from the sheer breadth and depth of his work, as no tests existed in his time.

16. Leonardo da Vinci: The Timeless Polymath with an IQ of 180–220

Leonardo da Vinci is widely recognized as one of history’s greatest minds. With an estimated IQ between 180 and 220, his genius spanned art, science, and engineering, leaving an everlasting impact on the world.

• Da Vinci’s works, including the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper, are celebrated worldwide.
• He made advancements in anatomy, hydraulics, and mechanics, sketching inventions like flying machines and armored vehicles.
• His ability to excel in so many fields earned him the title of a true “Renaissance man.”
• His IQ estimate is based on his achievements, as no tests existed in his time.

17. Voltaire: The Enlightenment Thinker with an IQ of 190–200

Voltaire, born François-Marie Arouet, was a French philosopher, writer, and satirist with an estimated IQ of 190–200. His wit and intellect helped shape the Enlightenment and beyond:

• Voltaire’s works challenged the social and political norms of his time, advocating for freedom of speech and religion.
• He authored over 20,000 letters and 2,000 books and pamphlets during his lifetime.
• His ideas laid the groundwork for modern democracy and civil rights.
• His IQ is an estimate drawn from the depth and impact of his work.

18. Isaac Newton: The Pioneer of Physics with an IQ of 190–200

Isaac Newton, one of the most influential scientists of all time, had an estimated IQ between 190 and 200. His discoveries laid the foundation for modern physics and mathematics:

• Laws of Motion: Newton’s laws of motion and universal gravitation changed how we understand the physical world.
• He co-developed calculus, revolutionizing mathematics.
• His work in optics and mechanics remains a cornerstone of science today.
• Newton’s IQ is an estimate based on his groundbreaking contributions.

19. Thomas Young: The Scientist of Many Fields with an IQ of 185–200

Thomas Young, with an estimated IQ of 185–200, is known for his contributions to optics, anatomy, and Egyptology.

His ability to master multiple disciplines earned him a reputation as a true polymath.

• Young’s work on light interference was a critical step in understanding wave theory.
• He helped decipher the Rosetta Stone, unlocking the secrets of ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs.
• Young identified the cause of astigmatism and contributed to understanding human anatomy.
• His IQ is inferred from his accomplishments, as no direct testing was available.

20. Galileo Galilei: The Father of Modern Science with an IQ of 180–200

Galileo Galilei, with an estimated IQ of 180–200, is often called the “father of modern science” for his groundbreaking work in astronomy, physics, and mathematics.

• Galileo discovered Jupiter’s moons, the phases of Venus, and improved the telescope.
• He developed foundational concepts like inertia and the laws of falling bodies.
• His support for the heliocentric model placed him in conflict with the Church.
• His IQ estimate reflects his revolutionary contributions to science.

21. Nikola Tesla: The Visionary Inventor with an IQ of 160–310

Nikola Tesla, with an estimated IQ between 160 and 310, was a genius ahead of his time.

His revolutionary ideas in electricity and engineering shaped the modern world and continue to inspire innovation today.

• The Serbian scientist invented alternating current (AC) technology, which became the standard for electricity transmission.
• His creations included the Tesla coil, wireless communication concepts, and early designs for renewable energy.
• Tesla’s forward-thinking ideas often went unrecognized during his lifetime.
• The 310 estimate is speculative, but his brilliance is undisputed.

22. Christopher Michael Langan: The Self-Taught Genius with an IQ of 195

Christopher Michael Langan, often referred to as “the smartest man in America,” has a reported IQ of 195.

His life story is a fascinating mix of unconventional achievements and intellectual brilliance:

• Langan taught himself to read by the age of three and was speaking full sentences as a toddler.
• He developed the Cognitive-Theoretic Model of the Universe (CTMU), a framework that connects philosophy, science, and logic.
• Despite his intelligence, Langan worked various jobs, including as a bouncer and horse rancher, before gaining recognition for his theories.

23. Rick Rosner: The Quirky Genius with an IQ of 192–198

Rick Rosner, with a reported IQ of 192–198, has one of the most unconventional paths of any intellectual on this list.

His life proves that intelligence can come with surprises.

• Rosner has worked as a bouncer, a nude model, and a TV writer for shows like Jimmy Kimmel Live!
• He has taken over 25 high-range IQ tests, consistently scoring in the top percentile.
• Rosner appeared on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, sparking controversy over a disputed question.
• Critics argue that niche IQ tests inflate his scores, but his intellectual curiosity is undeniable.

24. Garry Kasparov: The Chess Mastermind with an IQ in the 190s

Garry Kasparov, with an IQ reportedly in the 190s, is celebrated as one of the greatest chess players in history.

• Kasparov became the youngest World Chess Champion at 22 and dominated the game for nearly 20 years.
• He famously faced off against IBM’s Deep Blue supercomputer, defeating it in 1996 but losing in a 1997 rematch.
• Kasparov has written extensively on politics and artificial intelligence and is an outspoken advocate for democracy.
• While his exact score is unconfirmed, his mastery of complex strategy speaks volumes about his intelligence.

25. Cleopatra: The Political and Linguistic Genius with an IQ of 180

Cleopatra, the last Pharaoh of Egypt, is often remembered for her beauty, but her estimated IQ of 180 tells a different story—one of intellect, strategy, and leadership.

• Cleopatra was fluent in as many as 10 languages, an impressive feat in her time.
• She navigated complex political alliances, including her famous relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony.
• Cleopatra was well-versed in mathematics, philosophy, and astronomy, using her knowledge to govern effectively.
• Her intelligence is inferred from her achievements, as no formal tests existed in her era.

26. Johann Carl Friedrich Gauss: The Prince of Mathematics with an IQ of 250–300

Johann Carl Friedrich Gauss, with an IQ estimated between 250 and 300, was a mathematical prodigy whose work shaped many fields of science and mathematics.

• Gauss demonstrated his genius early, famously correcting his father’s payroll calculations as a young boy.
• His work in number theory, statistics, and astronomy laid the foundation for modern mathematics.
• Gauss contributed to physics, inventing tools like the heliotrope to measure distances with precision.

27. James Maxwell: The Pioneer of Electromagnetism with an IQ of 190–205

James Maxwell, with an estimated IQ between 190 and 205, revolutionized our understanding of physics.

His groundbreaking work formed the foundation for many modern technologies.

• Maxwell’s equations unified electricity, magnetism, and light into one cohesive theory, paving the way for wireless communication.
• Einstein once remarked that Maxwell’s contributions were the shoulders on which he stood.
• By the age of 14, Maxwell had written a paper on geometric curves that gained recognition from the Royal Society of Edinburgh.
• His discoveries influence everything from radio waves to the theory of relativity.

28. Marie Curie: The Double Nobel Laureate with an IQ of 180–200

Marie Curie, with an IQ estimated between 180 and 200, was not just a scientific pioneer but a trailblazer for women in science.

• Curie was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the only person to win in two different fields—physics and chemistry.
• She identified the elements radium and polonium, fundamentally changing our understanding of atomic science.
• During World War I, she developed portable X-ray units to aid battlefield surgeries.
• Curie’s work laid the foundation for cancer treatments and nuclear energy.

29. John Stuart Mill: The Philosopher of Liberty with an IQ of 180–200

John Stuart Mill, with an IQ estimated between 180 and 200, is remembered as one of the most influential thinkers of the 19th century.

• Mill learned Greek at age three and Latin at eight, mastering philosophy, logic, and history by his teenage years.
• He championed liberty, women’s suffrage, and individual freedom in works like On Liberty and The Subjection of Women.

30. Leonhard Euler: The Father of Modern Mathematics with an IQ of 180–200

Leonhard Euler, with an IQ estimated between 180 and 200, was a Swiss mathematician whose genius reshaped the world of mathematics.

• Euler published over 850 papers and books, covering topics ranging from calculus to astronomy.
• He introduced many notations still in use today, like f(x)f(x)f(x), eee, and π\piπ.
• Despite losing his sight later in life, Euler’s productivity and creativity never waned.
•  His work influences fields such as physics, engineering, and computer science.

31. Rudolf Clausius: The Father of Thermodynamics with an IQ of 190–205

Rudolf Clausius, with an estimated IQ between 190 and 205, was a German physicist and mathematician who laid the groundwork for thermodynamics.

• Clausius formalized the concept of entropy, a cornerstone of physics.
• He contributed to the kinetic theory of gases, explaining heat as molecular motion.
• Clausius’s work has applications in energy systems, engineering, and climate science.

32. Ada Lovelace: The First Computer Programmer with an IQ of 160

Ada Lovelace, with an IQ estimated at 160, was a visionary mathematician whose work laid the foundation for modern computing.

• Lovelace worked on Babbage’s Analytical Engine, writing what is widely regarded as the first algorithm intended for a machine.
• She foresaw that computers could perform tasks beyond calculations, imagining their potential for music and art.
• Lovelace’s insights combined creativity with rigorous logic, making her a true pioneer in computational theory.

33. Sho Yano: The Medical Prodigy with an IQ of 200

Sho Yano, with a reported IQ of 200, amazed the world with his precocious brilliance in both academics and medicine.

• Yano graduated from college at 12 and earned his PhD in molecular genetics and cell biology by 18.
• At 21, he became one of the youngest graduates from the University of Chicago’s prestigious medical program.
• In addition to excelling in medicine, Yano is a classical music prodigy, skilled in piano composition.
• Today, Yano works as a pediatric neurologist, combining his talents to help children with complex medical needs.

34. Fabiola Mann: The Rising Genius with an IQ of 162

Fabiola Mann, with a recorded IQ of 162, represents the next generation of extraordinary thinkers.

• Mann was inducted into Mensa at the age of 15 after achieving her high IQ score.
• She went on to study medicine at Imperial College London, graduating with honors.
• Her love for strategy games like chess highlights her analytical mind.
• Today, Mann serves as a practicing physician for the National Health Service in the UK.

35. Srinivasa Ramanujan: The Intuitive Mathematician with an IQ of 185

Srinivasa Ramanujan, with an estimated IQ of 185, was a self-taught mathematician who contributed immensely to number theory.

• Ramanujan discovered complex mathematical formulas and theorems with no formal training.
• His work with British mathematician G.H. Hardy resulted in groundbreaking contributions to mathematics.
• Ramanujan’s discoveries continue to influence areas like cryptography, string theory, and mathematical analysis.
• His life inspired books and films, celebrating his journey from humble beginnings to academic greatness.

36. Katherine Johnson: The NASA Mathematician with an IQ of 170

Katherine Johnson, with an IQ of 170, was a trailblazing mathematician whose calculations were critical to NASA’s success.

• Her orbital mechanics work ensured the success of John Glenn’s historic spaceflight in 1962.
• As an African-American woman working in a segregated era, she overcame systemic challenges to shine in her field.
• Johnson’s contributions extended to the Apollo missions, including the calculations for the moon landing.
• She received the Presidential Medal of Freedom and inspired the film Hidden Figures.

37. Jacob Barnett: The Physics Prodigy with an IQ of 170

Jacob Barnett, with a reported IQ of 170, has shown extraordinary talent in physics and mathematics from an early age.

• Diagnosed with autism as a toddler, Barnett started studying physics and advanced math by age three.
• He began college-level courses at the age of 10 and published his first academic paper at 13.
• Barnett earned a doctorate in theoretical physics and now works in advanced research.

38. Judit Polgár: The Greatest Female Chess Player with an IQ of 170

Judit Polgár, with an IQ of 170, is hailed as the best female chess player of all time.

• She became the youngest International Grandmaster at 15, breaking Bobby Fischer’s record.
• Polgár defeated multiple World Chess Champions, including Garry Kasparov and Anatoly Karpov.
• She competed in open tournaments, proving that gender is no barrier to excellence in chess.
• Since retiring in 2014, she has focused on coaching and promoting chess for young players.

39. Ettore Majorana: The Mysterious Physicist with an IQ of 183–200

Ettore Majorana, with an estimated IQ between 183 and 200, was a theoretical physicist whose life and work remain shrouded in mystery.

• Majorana contributed to neutrino mass research and quantum mechanics, making groundbreaking discoveries.
• He earned a prestigious academic position at the University of Naples at a young age.
• In 1938, Majorana vanished during a boat trip, sparking speculation about his fate.
• His name lives on in physics through the “Majorana particles” he predicted.

40. Nadia Camukova: The Multilingual Scholar with an IQ of 200

Nadia Camukova, with a recorded IQ of 200, is a linguist and academic whose intellect spans diverse fields.

• She speaks seven languages and eight Turkish dialects fluently.
• Camukova teaches at Bahçeşehir University in Turkey, focusing on language and cultural studies.
• Her IQ was confirmed by the Brain Research Institute in Moscow as among the highest ever recorded.

41. Ophelia Morgan: The Youngest Genius with an IQ of 171

Ophelia Morgan, with an IQ of 171, is one of the youngest members of this list and an extraordinary child prodigy.

• Ophelia was solving puzzles and recognizing patterns before the age of two.
• At three years old, she became one of the youngest members of Mensa.

42. Ramarni Wilfred: The London Prodigy with an IQ of 162

Ramarni Wilfred, with a confirmed IQ of 162, has drawn comparisons to some of history’s greatest thinkers.

• Wilfred could read, write, and discuss complex ideas by the age of three.
• At age 11, he achieved a Mensa score that placed him in the top 1% of global intellects.
• Wilfred later attended Oxford University, pursuing studies that matched his intellect.

43. Michael Kearney: The Youngest College Graduate with an IQ of 200+

Michael Kearney, with an IQ of over 200, holds the record as the youngest college graduate in history.

• He graduated from the University of South Alabama at just 10 years old.
• By the age of 22, Kearney had earned four bachelor’s degrees and a doctorate.
• Kearney later won large sums of money on game shows due to his strong trivia knowledge.

44. Francis Galton: The Father of Modern Statistics with an IQ of 200

Francis Galton, with an IQ estimated at 200, was a polymath whose work influenced numerous scientific fields.

• Galton developed modern statistical concepts like regression and correlation.
• He introduced fingerprint analysis for criminal identification.
• Galton’s work on human heredity led to the controversial concept of eugenics.
• Despite criticisms, his contributions to data science remain foundational.

45. Thomas Wolsey: The Political Strategist with an IQ of 200

Thomas Wolsey, with an estimated IQ of 200, was a key figure in 16th-century English politics and one of the last politically influential clergymen.

• Wolsey served as the Lord Chancellor for King Henry VIII, handling the kingdom’s foreign and domestic policies.
• Known for his lavish lifestyle, Wolsey became one of the richest and most powerful men in England.
• His failure to secure Henry’s annulment led to his arrest for treason, but he died before facing trial.

46. Hypatia: The Ancient Scholar with an IQ of 170–210

Hypatia, with an estimated IQ of 170–210, was a mathematician, philosopher, and astronomer in 4th-century Alexandria.

• She led the Neoplatonist school in Alexandria, teaching mathematics, astronomy, and philosophy.
• Hypatia invented devices for measuring fluid density and wrote commentaries on classic works like Ptolemy’s Almagest.

47. Alan Turing: The Codebreaker with an IQ of 185

Alan Turing, with an estimated IQ of 185, is widely regarded as the father of computer science. His contributions went far beyond breaking codes during World War II.

• Turing’s work on breaking the Enigma code saved countless lives and shortened the war.
• He proposed the Turing Test, a benchmark for artificial intelligence.
• Despite his achievements, Turing faced persecution due to his sexuality, a tragic chapter in his legacy.

48. Stephen Hawking: The Genius Who Explored the Universe with an IQ of 160

Stephen Hawking’s brilliance shaped our understanding of black holes and the origins of the universe.

• Hawking’s book A Brief History of Time brought complex physics to millions of readers.
• His theory of Hawking radiation explained how black holes emit energy.
• Despite living with ALS, he continued groundbreaking work for decades.

49. Carl Sagan: The Visionary of the Cosmos with an IQ of 160

Carl Sagan made science accessible and inspired generations to look to the stars.

• His TV series Cosmos remains one of the most-watched science documentaries.
• Sagan’s research included the greenhouse effect on Venus, shaping climate science.
• He advocated for space exploration and the search for extraterrestrial life.

50. George Boole: The Father of Boolean Logic with an IQ of 165

George Boole revolutionized mathematics and logic, creating the foundation for digital computing.

• Boole’s algebraic logic is the basis of modern computer science.
• His work in symbolic logic bridged the gap between philosophy and mathematics.
• Without Boole, today’s computers and software would not exist.

51. Immanuel Kant: The Philosopher Who Defined Reason with an IQ of 175

Immanuel Kant, one of the most influential philosophers in history, reshaped how we think about knowledge and morality.

• His Critique of Pure Reason is considered a cornerstone of modern philosophy.
• Kant introduced the concept of the categorical imperative, a basis for ethics.
• His work inspired fields as diverse as science, politics, and literature.

52. Carl Linnaeus: The Father of Modern Taxonomy with an IQ of 160

Carl Linnaeus revolutionized biology with his system for classifying living organisms.

• Linnaeus introduced binomial nomenclature, naming species with two Latin words.
• His work laid the groundwork for evolutionary biology.
• Today, his classification system is still used in science.

53. Anders Celsius: The Scientist Behind the Temperature Scale with an IQ of 160

Anders Celsius, best known for the Celsius temperature scale, made significant contributions to astronomy and physics.

• Celsius developed a precise thermometer and a temperature scale based on water’s freezing and boiling points.
• His observations of the aurora borealis advanced knowledge of Earth’s magnetic field.

54. Max Planck: The Father of Quantum Theory with an IQ of 170

Max Planck’s discovery of quantum mechanics changed our understanding of the universe.

• Planck’s constant is a fundamental part of quantum physics.
• He received the Nobel Prize in Physics for his work on black-body radiation.
• Planck’s theories laid the foundation for technologies like semiconductors.

55. Johannes Kepler: The Astronomer Who Mapped the Heavens with an IQ of 170

Johannes Kepler’s laws of planetary motion redefined our understanding of the solar system.

• Kepler demonstrated that planets orbit the sun in ellipses, not circles.
• His work supported and expanded upon Copernicus’ heliocentric model.
• Kepler’s discoveries remain central to modern astronomy.

56. Niels Bohr: The Pioneer of Atomic Structure with an IQ of 180

Niels Bohr’s model of the atom revolutionized physics and chemistry.

• Bohr’s quantum model explained the behavior of electrons in atoms.
• He contributed to the development of nuclear energy and quantum mechanics.
• Bohr received the Nobel Prize for his contributions to atomic theory.

57. Alexander Graham Bell: The Inventor Who Revolutionized Communication

Alexander Graham Bell, with an estimated IQ of 160, transformed the way people connect and communicate with his groundbreaking inventions.

• Bell is best known for inventing the telephone, a device that forever changed global communication.
• His research extended to other areas, including hearing aids and early advancements in aviation.

58. Benjamin Franklin: The Revolutionary Innovator with an Estimated IQ of 160

Benjamin Franklin, with an estimated IQ of 160, was a pioneer in science, politics, and invention.

• Franklin invented the lightning rod, bifocal glasses, and the Franklin stove, which are still admired for their practicality.
• He played a crucial role in drafting the Declaration of Independence, shaping the foundation of the United States.

59. Hans Bethe: The Nuclear Physicist with an Estimated IQ of 170

Hans Bethe, with an estimated IQ of 170, was a brilliant physicist who made groundbreaking contributions to nuclear science.

• Bethe developed the theory of stellar nucleosynthesis, explaining how stars generate energy.
• He was a leading scientist in the Manhattan Project, contributing to nuclear advancements during World War II.
• Bethe later advocated for the responsible use of nuclear technology, promoting global peace.

60. Harold Kroto: The Chemistry Nobel Laureate with an Estimated IQ of 170

Harold Kroto, with an estimated IQ of 170, was a chemist known for his groundbreaking discoveries in molecular science.

• Kroto co-discovered fullerenes, earning him the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1996.
• His work has had applications in materials science and nanotechnology, opening new frontiers in research.

61. Albert Einstein: The Genius Behind Relativity with an Estimated IQ of 160–190

Albert Einstein, one of the most recognized figures in science, transformed our understanding of the universe.

• Einstein developed the theory of relativity, changing how we perceive space and time.
• His equation E=mc2E = mc^2E=mc2 is one of the most famous in physics, connecting energy and mass.
• In 1921, he won the Nobel Prize in Physics for his explanation of the photoelectric effect, which paved the way for quantum mechanics.
• Einstein’s estimated IQ of 160–190 reflects his groundbreaking contributions to physics and his philosophical insights.

Methodology

The IQ scores listed in this article are a mix of estimations and documented results. Historical figures, like Leonardo da Vinci and Isaac Newton, never took standardized IQ tests, as such tests did not exist during their time.

Their scores are derived from analyses of their achievements and contributions by historians and researchers.

For modern figures, some scores come from verified tests, while others originate from high-range IQ tests or societies like Mensa and the Giga Society.

It is important to note that these specialized tests are not always standardized or universally recognized.

FAQs

What is considered a high IQ?

A high IQ typically starts at a score of 130 or above, which places individuals in the top 2% of the population. IQ tests measure abilities in areas like problem-solving, logic, and memory.

Scores over 140 are often considered genius-level, though the tests themselves have limitations and are influenced by various factors.

Are IQ scores the only way to measure intelligence?

No, IQ scores are just one way to measure intelligence. Many experts argue that intelligence is multi-dimensional, including emotional intelligence (EQ), creativity, problem-solving ability, and specific talents in areas like music or art.

IQ tests focus on logical and mathematical reasoning, but they do not capture the full scope of human intelligence.

How accurate are IQ tests?

IQ tests are designed to measure specific cognitive abilities, but their accuracy can be influenced by various factors.

These include the test-taker’s environment, stress levels, cultural background, and familiarity with standardized testing. While they provide a general indication of intellectual potential, they do not account for every aspect of intelligence.

Can someone’s IQ be improved?

While IQ scores are largely stable, certain activities can help enhance cognitive abilities. Engaging in brain-stimulating tasks like puzzles, learning new skills, reading, and practicing problem-solving can improve mental agility.

A healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and proper nutrition, also supports cognitive function.

Final Thoughts

This article highlights individuals whose exceptional intelligence shaped history. Their achievements remind us that true brilliance lies in the impact of ideas, discoveries, and creations.

Intelligence is not just a measure of potential but a tool for meaningful contributions that inspire and advance humanity.

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