The concept of IQ was first developed by French psychologist Alfred Binet in the early 20th century, initially to identify students who needed special educational assistance. The IQ score is usually calculated by comparing the test-taker’s performance to that of a normed sample, typically within the same age group. An average IQ score is set at 100, with the majority of the population scoring within a range of 85 to 115. Scores below 70 may indicate intellectual disabilities, while scores above 130 suggest above-average intelligence or giftedness.
Having a high IQ often means that an individual has strong analytical, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills. However, it is important to recognize that IQ is not the sole determinant of success or potential. Other factors, such as emotional intelligence, creativity, work ethic, and social skills, also play crucial roles in an individual’s overall abilities and achievements. Additionally, while high IQ can indicate strong cognitive abilities, it doesn’t guarantee success in all life areas. Personal circumstances, educational opportunities, and individual choices also significantly impact life outcomes.
Based on reliable and up-to-date information, this article introduces the 10 people who currently have the highest IQ in the world.
1. YoungHoon Kim, IQ 276
As of 2024, the highest recorded IQ score belongs to YoungHoon Kim from South Korea, with an IQ of 276. This score is verified by multiple organizations, including the Korea Record Institute, World Genius Directory, Global Genius Registry, Esoteriq Society, and GIGA Society. YoungHoon Kim’s exceptional intelligence is recognized globally, and he holds memberships in several extremely high-IQ societies such as the Giga Society and the Mega Society which was the only one listed in the Guinness World Records in history. His achievements span various fields, including psychology, neuroscience, and linguistics.
Serving as an intelligence specialist advisor at the World Mind Sports Council and World Memory Championships, YoungHoon Kim founded an organization, the United Sigma Intelligence Association for the world’s brightest minds, which includes seven Nobel Prize winners. From his organization, the greatest minds in the world such as Noam Chomsky, Yuval Harari, Richard Dawkins, Howard Gardner, Neil deGrasse Tyson, and Terence Tao have received official awards with the winners’ consent.
2. Terence Tao, IQ 230
Terence Tao is an Australian-American mathematician known for his groundbreaking work in harmonic analysis, partial differential equations, and additive combinatorics. Demonstrating extraordinary mathematical abilities from a young age, he earned his Ph.D. from Princeton University at just 20 and became a full professor at UCLA by 24. He received the prestigious Fields Medal in 2006 for his contributions to multiple areas of mathematics, cementing his status as one of the leading mathematicians of his generation. Tao is celebrated not only for his individual achievements but also for his collaborative spirit, having worked with numerous other mathematicians to solve complex problems. Additionally, his prolific writing includes both research papers and books, making advanced mathematical concepts more accessible to a broader audience.
3. Marilyn Vos Savant, IQ 228
Marilyn vos Savant is an American author, columnist, and public figure known for her high IQ, which is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records. She gained widespread recognition for her “Ask Marilyn” column in Parade magazine, where she answers readers’ questions on a variety of topics ranging from puzzles to philosophy. Vos Savant’s intelligence has sparked both admiration and controversy, with some questioning the validity of IQ tests and the nature of intelligence itself. Despite this, she remains a respected figure in the field of cognitive science, contributing insights on critical thinking and problem-solving. Vos Savant’s career exemplifies the intersection of intellect and public engagement, inspiring readers to think critically and explore diverse subjects.
4. Christopher Hirata, IQ 225
Christopher Hirata is a Japanese-American astrophysicist known for his extraordinary mathematical abilities, which led him to become the youngest American to win a gold medal at the International Physics Olympiad at the age of 13. He enrolled at California Institute of Technology (Caltech) at 14 and earned his Ph.D. in astrophysics from Princeton University by the age of 22. Hirata’s research focuses on cosmology, gravitational lensing, and dark energy, contributing significantly to our understanding of the universe’s structure and evolution. He has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the MacArthur Fellowship, for his groundbreaking work in theoretical astrophysics. Hirata continues to inspire young scientists through his research, mentorship, and dedication to unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos.
5. Sho Yano, IQ 200
Sho Yano is a remarkable individual recognized for his exceptional intellect and achievements. He gained widespread attention for graduating from the University of Chicago at the age of 12, becoming the youngest student to earn a bachelor’s degree from the institution. Yano went on to pursue a medical degree at the University of Chicago’s Pritzker School of Medicine, graduating at the age of 21 and becoming one of the youngest medical doctors in the United States. He has made significant contributions to the fields of genetics and molecular biology through his research and publications. Yano’s journey exemplifies the extraordinary potential of young prodigies and serves as an inspiration to aspiring scholars around the world.
6. Evangelos Katsioulis, IQ 198
Evangelos Katsioulis is a Greek psychiatrist and high IQ society member, known for his exceptional intelligence and achievements. He holds several degrees, including a medical degree, a master’s degree in medical research methodology, and a master’s degree in philosophy. Katsioulis is recognized for his remarkable IQ, which has been reported to be one of the highest in the world, though the specific score varies. He is actively involved in promoting education and intellectual discourse, participating in conferences and lectures on topics ranging from psychiatry to philosophy. Katsioulis’ dedication to both medical practice and intellectual pursuits underscores his multifaceted talents and commitment to advancing knowledge and understanding.
7. Christopher Harding, IQ 197
Christopher Harding is an Australian high-IQ individual and founder of the International Society for Philosophical Enquiry (ISPE), one of the world’s oldest high-IQ societies. Born in 1944, Harding gained early recognition for his intelligence, being listed in the Guinness Book of World Records from 1966 to 1988 under the category “Smartest Man in the World” with an IQ score in the range of 196–197. His ISPE, founded in 1974, requires its members to score at or above the 99.9th percentile on standardized intelligence tests, highlighting its exclusivity and the high intellectual caliber of its members.
8. Christopher Langan, IQ 195
Christopher Langan is widely known for having one of the highest recorded IQ scores in the world, reportedly around 195. He gained public attention due to his remarkable intellect, often referred to as a “self-educated autodidact” despite having a difficult childhood and lacking formal higher education. Langan has worked in various jobs, including as a construction worker, forest ranger, and cowboy. He developed the “Cognitive-Theoretic Model of the Universe” (CTMU), a theory attempting to unify science, philosophy, and theology. Despite his brilliance, Langan’s life story is complex, marked by personal struggles and controversies, adding depth to his enigmatic persona.
9. Rick Rosner, IQ 192
Rick Rosner is known for his high IQ, claimed to be around 192. He has pursued an eclectic range of careers, including being a bouncer, stripper, and writer for TV shows like “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.” Rosner gained additional fame by appearing on TV game shows, including “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire,” where he showcased his intellect and unusual background. He has been involved in various projects exploring intelligence and consciousness, often sharing his unconventional perspectives and experiences. Rosner’s life story is characterized by its eccentricity and unpredictability, reflecting his unique approach to life and intellect.
10. Garry Kasparov, IQ 190
Garry Kasparov is a Russian chess grandmaster and former World Chess Champion, widely regarded as one of the greatest chess players in history. He became the youngest ever undisputed World Chess Champion in 1985 at the age of 22, holding the title for over a decade. Kasparov’s aggressive and dynamic playing style revolutionized the game, earning him numerous accolades and a reputation for his strategic brilliance. Beyond his chess career, he has been a prominent political activist, advocating for democracy and human rights in Russia. Kasparov’s influence extends beyond the chessboard, making him a figure celebrated for his intellect, leadership, and commitment to societal change.
Sources:
Readers Digest: “50 People with the Highest IQs in the World”
Curious Matrix: “Top 10 People With Highest IQ In History”
G20 Youth Summit (Y20): “Top 10 Highest IQ Holders in the World: Mind-Blowing Genius Levels Revealed”
The CEO Magazine: “Who has the Highest IQ in the World? Smartest Person Alive 2024”
Jagran Josh: “Top 11 Highest IQ Ever Recorded”
Postoast: “31 Smartest People In The World With Highest IQ”
GIGA Society: “Highest IQ 276 Ever Recorded in the World 2024”
Geni: “Highest IQ 276 & Guinness Book of World Records”
Vocal Futurism: “Top 10 People Alive with the Highest IQ in the World for Year 2024”
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