I found this video on YouTube and have to say it is very interesting. Langan has one of the highest IQ’s of anyone ever measured, one which even exceeds Einstein’s. Ironically, he worked as a bouncer in Long Island and when you see the video you can understand why he may have chosen that as his career. His story very much reminds me of Good Will Hunting, a movie about a genius who decides to be a janitor and construction worker despite his intelligence.
Additional Parts of the Documentary
You can watch part two and part three of the video, but for some reason I found those videos to be a bit disturbing because he starts to compare himself to God and discusses people’s right to breed (woah you are taking things a little too far in my opinion).
I mean yeah I have heard people joke that some couples in the world shouldn’t have children but where do you draw the line, and who are we to say they can’t? I understand his theories about keeping “mutations” out of the gene pool, but it got a little Hitlerish for me and lost interest and frankly some respect for him.
If you watch all three videos, let me know what you think, maybe I am missing the point (I’m no genius). Interesting stuff, hope you enjoy the video.
Exceptional Intelligence
Langan’s IQ is reportedly one of the highest ever measured, exceeding even that of Einstein.
Unexpected Career
Despite his genius, Langan worked as a bouncer in Long Island, similar to the fictional character in Good Will Hunting.
Controversial Views
In later videos, Langan expresses concerning ideas about eugenics and compares himself to God.
Discussion Questions
- How does extreme intelligence impact how someone relates to society?
- Why might someone with extraordinary abilities choose not to pursue traditional academic or career paths?
- At what point does intellectual confidence cross over into problematic territory?
- How should we respond when brilliant minds express ideas that seem morally questionable?