There are different definitions on who is a genius, as it essentially happens in different fields. A genius is an individual who displays exceptional talents in a specific field. According to Washington post a genius is defined as, “Someone who comes up with ideas or productions that are both original and exemplary – models of achievement that others admire and even imitate” (Strauss, 2012). When one thinks of a modern day genius several examples come to mind example Stephen hawking, Michael Jordan and Oprah Winfrey. Being a genius does not necessarily mean having a high IQ.
There is the argument if a genius is born or made or nature vs nurture. Francis Galton made known the idea that a genius was in fact born and not made, however his research has not been proved right. One can be born with a tremendous amount of talent but if one does not work to cultivate this gift then it becomes useless. Albert states that,” However, the early and still-influential statistical studies of Frances Galton on the inheritance of genius have neither been supported nor definitively refuted” (Rothenberg & Wyshak, 2004).
Being born a genius is not enough one has to work on it to become exceptional. Hence the introduction of the 10,000 hours’ rule. The idea is introduced by author Malcolm Gladwell that it takes approximately ten years to be exceptionally good at something. This idea leans more towards working hard, putting in the hours towards a specific field and eventually becoming a genius in it. According to the Guardian, “Like everybody else, even the greatest minds that have ever existed have had to struggle and strive to achieve their goals” (Brewer, 2000). But in order to put that much hard work, one has to be extremely motivated and highly talented in that field otherwise may just give up.
Being a genius therefore is both the elements of nature and nurture. One is born with the intelligence and talent but also one has to work hard relentlessly to be exceptional and achieve in their field. This means that there is a relationship between nature and the environment. A genius is born with some gift but one needs to be driven and persist towards a goal and be the best.
