What is so "genius" about the work of genius scientists?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the defining characteristics of genius scientists such as Einstein and Newton, emphasizing that their genius stems from a combination of knowledge, curiosity, imagination, and persistence. Participants argue that these traits enable them to tackle complex problems that others may not approach. The conversation also touches on the notion that many could have achieved similar breakthroughs if given the same opportunities and time. Ultimately, the consensus is that genius is not solely about innate talent but also about the willingness to explore and solve problems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of scientific methodology
  • Familiarity with historical figures in science (e.g., Einstein, Newton)
  • Knowledge of the role of persistence in problem-solving
  • Awareness of the concepts of curiosity and imagination in innovation
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the scientific contributions of Albert Einstein and Isaac Newton
  • Explore the impact of persistence on scientific breakthroughs
  • Investigate the relationship between curiosity and innovation in science
  • Examine case studies of lesser-known scientists who made significant contributions
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for aspiring scientists, educators, and anyone interested in the psychology of innovation and the traits that contribute to groundbreaking scientific achievements.

ChromeBit
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Many scientists are regarded as geniuses based on their work (Einstein, Newton, etc).
What is it about their work that is so clever that few others could have done it?
 
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My guess would be that their works were developed with knowledge, curiosity, imagination, and persistence.
I base this on quotes attributed to Einstein, Newton, Edison, Tesla, and of course, Roosevelt.

Of course, without some base knowledge, you wouldn't be curious about something, and without imagination, you couldn't really expand on how to solve the problem, and unless you are persistent, the problem is just going to end up on the coffee table, with everything else, and never get solved.
And then you run off to the river, which I am about to do, and listen to people gossip.

Hmmm... this reminds me, that I have a data from a science experiment on my coffee table from yesterday that needs analyzing.
I think I boogered a couple of experiments over the last 10 years.
 
ChromeBit said:
Many scientists are regarded as geniuses based on their work (Einstein, Newton, etc).
What is it about their work that is so clever that few others could have done it?
That assumes that "few others could have done it". The "geniuses" just did it first, or were published first. Others could have done whatever, eventually, and if done later, their work just helped to add to the knowledge or helped to confirm the new knowledge.
 
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