The Geography of Genius

This is an interesting podcast from The Art of Manliness. A little long, but worth it!

Throughout human history, certain areas of the world have experienced short periods of intense creative flourishing. For example, from 500 BC to 300 BC the Greek city-state of Athens produced thinkers and philosophers that laid the foundation of Western Civilization. Between 1330 and 1550, great works of art poured out of Florence, Italy.

Why do certain places have these bursts of creative genius?

My guest today on the podcast explores that question in his book The Geography of Genius: A Search for the World’s Most Creative Places, from Ancient Athens to Silicon Valley. His name is Eric Weiner and on today’s episode we explore what Eric uncovered during his wold-wide tour of humanity’s most creative times and places and how we can apply these principles in our own lives to be more innovative.

Show Highlights

• The scientific study of genius
• How a dirty, dumpy city-state in Ancient Greece produced some of the most prolific philosophical minds in human history
• Why becoming “foodies” may have contributed to Athens’ demise as a center of genius
• Why chaos is necessary for creative genius
• What a city in ancient China can teach us about how new ideas are formed
• How Leonardo da Vinci got his start in an “art sweatshop”
• What the Scots during the Enlightenment can teach us about the importance of having a chip on your shoulder
• How the Scottish practice of “flyting” — “The ritual humiliation of your opponent through verbal violence” — contributed to creative genius
• Why Silicon Valley is a hotspot for tech innovation
• Why boldness and manliness are necessary traits for creative genius
• And much more!

The Geography of Genius is an enlightening and entertaining read. Eric does a great job of explaining oftentimes complex research in an approachable and humorous way. If you’re looking to harness your own creative genius, pick up a copy today.

Interesting days

Today - Tuberculosis Day, Flatmate’s Day and Chocolate Covered Raisins Day Yum!

Tomorrow - Tolkien Reading Day, Pecan Day and Waffle Day I don't know about pecans, but I'm pretty sure I'll be celebrating Waffle Day

Next Thursday - Crayola Crayon Day, Eiffel Tower Day, World Backup Day and Bunsen Burner Day

April 24 - Teach Your Children to Save Day, Pig In A Blanket Day and Pinhole Photography Day