Genius Explained - Softcover

"The book persuasively argues against the straw man idea of genius as an inherent quality or (super) natural gift. Exceptional abilities are built up in everyday circumstances-hard work, discussion, and so on. In addition, Howe presents clear, coherent biographical detail in an effort to foster the feeling that "geniuses" are just human beings- like you and me." Biography

In Genius Explained Michael J. A. Howe addresses the commonly held belief that genius is born not made. Controversially he suggests that genius is not a mysterious and mystical gift but the product of a combination of environment, personality and sheer hard work. The exceptional talents of those we call geniuses are the result of a unique set of circumstances and opportunities but in every case they are pursued and exploited with a characteristic drive, determination and focus which the rest of us rarely show. Michael J. A. Howe develops these ideas through a series of case studies focusing on famous figures such as Charles Darwin, George Eliot, George Stevenson, the Bronte sisters, Michael Faraday and Albert Einstein in this fascinating and accessible book which will be of interest to academics and students of intelligence and the interested lay reader.