Born January 8, 1942, in Oxford, Oxfordshire, England, and died March 14, 2018, in Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, Stephen Hawking was a renowned theoretical physicist who developed the theory of exploding black holes, drawing upon Albert Einstein's theory of relativity and quantum mechanics.
In his early 20s, Hawking was diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), a fatal degenerative neuromuscular disease, which doctors believed would kill him within several months. However, he never let his condition deter him from becoming one of the most influential scientists and intellectuals of our time, a sentiment echoed by Bill Gates, who regarded him as one of the greatest minds of our era.
Defying the odds, Hawking lived to the age of 76 and continued to make significant contributions to science throughout his life. His book, A Brief History of Time, became one of the best-selling books ever, bringing complex scientific ideas to the general public.
Many believe Stephen Hawking to be the world's smartest person. But is that true? Just how smart was the great theoretical physicist?
Let’s explore the mind of the modern-day genius.
What Was Stephen Hawking's IQ?
Stephen Hawking is often associated with being a genius with a high IQ, although he never publicly disclosed his IQ score or whether he took a test. Most estimates place Hawking's IQ around 160, a figure frequently cited to be the intelligence quotient of many notable scientists and intellectuals.
Some sources suggest that Stephen Hawking's IQ might have been as low as 150, while others claim it could be as high as 200. However, the 150 estimate is less commonly cited, and the 200 estimate is generally considered an outlier lacking credible evidence. Overall, the estimate of 160 remains the most reliable and widely accepted figure when discussing Hawking's IQ.
The curiosity about Stephen Hawking’s IQ score stems from a broader desire to quantify what makes someone a genius and to understand the nature of his extraordinary intellect. People often wonder whether there is a specific number that can encapsulate the depth of his intelligence and the groundbreaking contributions he made to science.
However, what most people truly want to know goes beyond a mere number; they seek to understand how someone with such profound challenges could achieve so much.
The fascination with his IQ is really a reflection of our quest to comprehend the relationship between intelligence, perseverance, and the capacity for innovation and discovery. As we will discuss, in Hawking’s case, the intrigue lies in how his mind navigated the complexities of the universe rather than the specific numerical value of his intelligence quotient.
Did Stephen Hawking Take a Mensa IQ Test?
A common myth suggests that Stephen Hawking took a Mensa test after being diagnosed with ALS to determine whether his intelligence had been affected by the disease. However, there is no credible evidence to support this claim.
Hawking himself never publicly acknowledged taking any type of official intelligence test, and he was known for dismissing the importance of IQ scores altogether. In fact, when asked about his IQ in a 2004 interview with the New York Times, Hawking famously responded, "I have no idea. People who boast about their IQ are losers." This response reflects his view that intelligence is a complex trait that cannot be accurately captured by a single number.
The story of Hawking taking a Mensa test appears to be nothing more than a myth, likely stemming from the fascination with his remarkable intellect and achievements despite his physical limitations.
What Did Hawking Believe About IQ Scores, Intelligence, and Success?
Stephen Hawking's views on IQ scores and intelligence were shaped by his belief that true intellectual achievement goes far beyond numerical measures. For Hawking, intelligence was not about boasting a high IQ number, but about the continuous pursuit of understanding and solving complex problems. He valued curiosity, resilience, and a deep commitment to learning as the real markers of intelligence.
Hawking’s life exemplified how determination and the application of one's mind to meaningful challenges lead to significant accomplishments. Despite his physical limitations due to ALS, Hawking made groundbreaking contributions to science and inspired millions around the world. While he never explicitly commented on Howard Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences, Hawking’s belief that intelligence is multifaceted and cannot be captured by a single measure suggests a likely alignment with the idea that there are different types of intelligence.
To Hawking, intelligence was about making an impact on the world through perseverance, creativity, and the courage to explore the unknown, rather than relying on conventional measures like IQ scores. To him, success was more than a number.
Hawking's Achievements Suggest He Would Score High on IQ Tests
Although Stephen Hawking's exact intelligence quotient remains unknown, his remarkable achievements demonstrate a level of intelligence far beyond the average IQ score. His ability to connect seemingly unrelated concepts and articulate complex ideas in an understandable way underscores his exceptional intellect.
Below are some of the key achievements that highlight why Stephen Hawking would likely score high on standardized measures of intelligence.
Academic Achievements
Stephen Hawking's academic journey started with modest beginnings. While studying at St. Albans School in England, his grades were initially among the worst in his class. However, he soon developed a strong interest in science, particularly physics, which fueled his academic turnaround.
Hawking went on to study physics at University College, Oxford, where he graduated with first-class honors, and later pursued graduate studies at the University of Cambridge, earning a Ph.D. in theoretical physics. His academic success, particularly in such challenging fields, suggests a high level of intelligence and dedication, similar to other renowned geniuses like Thomas Edison, who also overcame early academic struggles to achieve greatness.
Groundbreaking Research
Hawking's contributions to theoretical physics and cosmology are among his most significant achievements. His work on black holes, including the prediction of Hawking radiation, fundamentally changed our understanding of these mysterious cosmic entities. He also made significant contributions to the Big Bang theory and the nature of the universe. These accomplishments required immense creativity, deep knowledge, and the ability to think beyond established scientific paradigms.
Complex Problem-Solving
Throughout his career, Hawking addressed some of the most complex and challenging problems in physics. His ability to develop novel theories and provide answers to longstanding questions in cosmology and quantum mechanics showcases his exceptional problem-solving skills. This intellectual capability is a strong indicator of a high IQ, as it demonstrates advanced reasoning, logic, and the ability to synthesize vast amounts of information.
Work Ethic, Intellectual Drive, and Resilience
One of the defining aspects of Stephen Hawking's life was his unwavering work ethic. Despite being diagnosed with ALS at the age of 21, a condition that progressively limited his physical abilities, Hawking's determination to continue his research was extraordinary. He spent countless hours focused on deep, complex problems, often working late into the night, driven by a relentless curiosity and a passion for understanding the universe.
Many psychologists and personality experts believe that Hawking's intense intellectual drive exemplified the INTP personality type, characterized by theoretical thinking and a love for abstract concepts. Similarly, he is often associated with Enneagram Type 5, known for a thirst for knowledge and a deep desire to comprehend the world.
Hawking's resilience in the face of adversity, combined with his disciplined work habits, played a crucial role in his ability to produce groundbreaking work throughout his life. His mental fortitude and dedication to his work are traits that would likely correlate with a high score on IQ tests, as they reflect not only raw intelligence but also the ability to apply that intelligence effectively, even under extreme circumstances.
In this respect, Hawking’s work ethic shares similarities with modern tech visionaries like Elon Musk, who is known for working extraordinarily long hours—sometimes 16 to 20-hour days—especially in the early years of his ventures like Tesla and SpaceX. Both men, though in different fields, exemplify how a relentless drive and dedication to their respective missions can lead to extraordinary achievements, despite the significant personal challenges they faced.
Science Communication
One of Hawking’s most impressive talents was his ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to a broad audience. His bestselling book, A Brief History of Time, is a testament to his ability to distill intricate ideas into language that is accessible and engaging for non-scientists. This skill reflects not only a high level of intelligence but also an exceptional understanding of the subject matter and the cognitive empathy to connect with readers of varying backgrounds.
Recognition and Legacy
Hawking's contributions to physics were widely recognized by his peers and the broader scientific community. He received numerous prestigious awards, including the Albert Einstein Award, the Wolf Prize in Physics, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. These accolades highlight the respect and admiration he garnered from fellow scientists, further solidifying the view that his intelligence was of an extraordinary caliber.
Hawking’s enduring legacy is not only defined by his scientific achievements but also by his work ethic and resilience, which allowed him to continue making significant contributions despite the immense physical challenges he faced. His life serves as a powerful example of how dedication, persistence, and intellectual curiosity can lead to extraordinary accomplishments.
Who's Smarter, Stephen Hawking or Albert Einstein?
Stephen Hawking and Albert Einstein are often estimated to have had similar IQs, around 160, placing them among those with the highest IQs ever recorded. Because of their accomplishments, many think of these two as being the smartest people in modern history, but what does it really mean to be "smarter"?
Intelligence, especially at such a high level, is not just about an IQ score; it's about how one applies intellect to solve complex problems and advance our understanding of the world.
While Einstein provided the tools and framework for modern theoretical physics, Hawking used these tools to explore and answer some of the most profound questions about the universe. Both men demonstrated exceptional reasoning, creativity, and the ability to see beyond the established scientific paradigms of their time.
Einstein revolutionized physics with his theory of relativity, fundamentally changing our understanding of space, time, and gravity. His work laid the foundation for much of modern physics. Hawking, building on concepts from Einstein and others, made groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of black holes and the origins of the universe, including his discovery of Hawking radiation.
It’s also worth noting that other intellectuals, like William James Sidis, Leonardo da Vinci, Christopher Langan, and Terrence Tao, are believed to have had even higher IQ scores, and Marilyn vos Savant is known for having one of the highest IQs ever recorded. These examples show that a high IQ does not solely define how a person will impact the world.
Ultimately, comparing Einstein's and Hawking's intelligence directly misses the broader point. Both men expanded our understanding of the universe in ways that have had a lasting impact. Their genius cannot be fully captured by an IQ score alone but is better appreciated through the legacy of their scientific contributions.
Conclusion: Stephen Hawking's Legacy Goes Beyond His IQ Score
Stephen Hawking was renowned for his groundbreaking work in theoretical physics and cosmology, accomplishments that speak volumes about his intellect. However, his impact and legacy extend far beyond any standardized measure of intelligence. Despite being diagnosed with ALS at the very start of his career, Hawking pursued his academic and scientific passions with remarkable determination, refusing to let his condition define him or limit his ambitions.
Hawking's story is a powerful reminder that success and impact are not solely determined by an IQ score.
While most people have an average IQ score, Hawking’s life shows that with curiosity, perseverance, and a commitment to one’s passions and interests, anyone can achieve greatness. His legacy encourages us to look beyond numbers and instead focus on how we apply our knowledge, overcome challenges, and contribute to the world.
As a brilliant scientist and a symbol of perseverance, effective communication, and advocacy, Stephen Hawking’s life and achievements continue to inspire people globally. His legacy reminds us that while IQ tests can measure certain aspects of intelligence, they cannot capture the full breadth of a person’s abilities, creativity, or the impact they can have on the world.
