Determining the single "most intelligent" human is a complex and often subjective question, but one individual frequently cited as a benchmark for extreme intelligence is William James Sidis.
Who Was William James Sidis?
William James Sidis is often regarded as one of the most intelligent people to have ever lived, showcasing remarkable intellectual abilities from a very young age.
Early Life and Prodigious Talents:
- Early Reading: He reportedly read a newspaper at just 18 months old.
- Harvard Entry: He entered Harvard University at the incredibly young age of 11.
- Harvard Graduation: He graduated from Harvard at the age of 16, demonstrating unparalleled academic achievements.
These achievements, according to the reference, make him a benchmark for child prodigies and are why he is considered by many to be the most intelligent person in history.
Key Highlights:
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Early Reading | 18 months |
Harvard Entry | 11 years old |
Harvard Graduation | 16 years old |
While there are other brilliant minds throughout history, William James Sidis’s documented abilities, particularly at such a young age, make him a compelling answer when considering who the most intelligent human might be. It is important to note that "intelligence" can be defined in different ways and can be hard to measure perfectly, however, Sidis’s accomplishments remain extraordinary.