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Introduction
You will note that the words genius, genesis, and generation sound similar. That is because they have the same Proto-Indo-European root: gen, which means to “give birth.” Geniuses gave birth to the world around us. Take any technology, any political institution, any law, any religion, any wide-spread norm - trace it back to its origin, to its very beginning, and you’ll find a genius entertaining a wild idea for the first time.
What is the nature of these geniuses? Is there a relationship between creative genius and mental instability? And if yes, is the relationship antagonistic or friendly?
Let’s find out.
There are five broad theories about the origin of genius. These theories are like the sides of a cube - very much connected, very much adding dimensionality to the whole, and yet very much distinct. I researched the lives of geniuses, found first-hand accounts of their creative process, and read academic papers from psychologists devoted to understanding exceptional achievers. One of the five broad theories always popped up.
Some of these theories will appeal to you more than others. I personally like number four. But ultimately they all reveal a different side to genius and illuminate the genius-insanity connection from a unique angle.
Let’s start with a theory of genius favored by Thomas Edison, Carlyle, and Nobel Laureates…
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