Albert Einstein was unique in that the corpus callosum that
connects both sides of his brain had high density connections that further led
to a higher level of thinking and creativity. Researchers from Weiwei Men of
East China Normal University and Dean Falk from Florida State University
studied his preserved brain and found that the thickness of his corpus callosum
was much greater than others, indicating additional nerve connections.
Previous research has shown that the interconnectivity of
the brain and the ability to process from differentiated locations can create
higher levels of thinking and creativity. It is considered a gifted trait
whereby the holders have higher than average ability to learn and can use this
processing power to create new and unique connections among various forms of
information. This is what leads to scientific breakthroughs.
Research on intelligence has also shown the varying forms in
which some people excel and learn is based in their processing abilities.
Depending on what theory one uses it is possible to see Einstein’s large fluid intelligence
working within his memory. This allowed him to dream, connect, and then delve
into the varying aspects of his scientific explorations. One must first see the
possibility and then construct the pieces that make it real.
Preconscious understanding is different than conscious
understanding. In Einstein’s case the dreaming may have created an important
preconscious connection of varying forms of information that eventual led to
awareness. It was this awareness of the possibility of relative motion that
allowed Einstein to systematically test the concept to come up with his theory
of relativity.
Depending on which one of the eight forms of intelligence,
as proposed by Gardner, one excels at may depend on the size and strength of
certain areas of the brain. In Einstein’s case this may be more associated with
the spatial and mathematical portions. Other geniuses may have different skills
based in their neural connections that could enhance their skills in sports,
social interaction, or word choice.
The very way in which he thought about science and his
cognitive flexibility can be summed up as follows:
“So many people today—and even professional scientists—seem
to me like somebody who has seen thousands of trees but has never seen a
forest. A knowledge of the historic and philosophical background gives that
kind of independence from prejudices of his generation from which most
scientists are suffering. This independence created by philosophical insight
is—in my opinion—the mark of distinction between a mere artisan or specialist
and a real seeker after truth.”
You may read the full 2013 study results:
