Before we can ask where all the geniuses have gone, we must first ask: what is a genius?

In the first of a three-part series on "The Genius Illusion," George and Alice embark on a historical investigation to deconstruct the very idea of greatness. They trace the surprising evolution of the concept, from the divine guiding spirits of ancient Rome to the modern cult of the solitary, suffering hero.

This foundational episode challenges our most basic assumptions, changes how you see the titans of the past, and sets the stage for the next two parts of our deep dive. All while learning key English vocabulary to discuss these ambitious ideas.

Sources:

Dubos, J.-B. (1719). Critical reflections on poetry and painting.

Voltaire. (1764). Philosophical dictionary.

Condorcet, N. de. (1795). Sketch for a historical picture of the progress of the human mind .

Kant, I. (1790). Critique of the power of judgment .

Nietzsche, F. (1878). Human, all too human.