When the physicist Ettore Majorana mysteriously disappeared in March 1938, Enrico Fermi made a profound comment on the essence of genius, saying, “There are several categories of scientists in the world; those of second or third rank do their best but never get very far. Then there is the first rank, those who make important discoveries, fundamental to scientific progress. But then there are the geniuses, like Galilei and Newton. Majorana was one of these.” 

In less than a decade after the world adopted Industry 4.0, there’s already talk of a fifth industrial revolution. Considering that the gap between the first and second industrial revolutions was a hundred years (and around the same when it comes to subsequent industrial revolutions)makes me reflect on the pace at which technology is evolving. It is my firm belief that every industrial revolution has been inspired and driven by human genius and that the pace of evolution today is an indication of the sheer number of such geniuses who walk amongst us. 

We know a lot of geniuses from the past by name and references in history books. The geniuses of today, however, are largely unsung in the larger landscape of progress – simply due to the pace and multitude of creations we have seen in the recent past. All this is a tribute to human intellect, and I think back to all the times I have met some of these genius minds of our time.  

Genius often manifests as a significant deviation from the norm in cognitive abilities. These individuals possess an intellectual prowess that sets them apart, grasping complex concepts with unparalleled ease. They venture beyond established boundaries to conceive groundbreaking solutions and ideas. These innovations can often be ahead of their time or challenge established paradigms in their respective fields. Another facet of genius is the emergence of prodigious talent from a young age. These individuals showcase exceptional skills or abilities in a particular area, proving their potential long before the world recognizes it. The hallmark of a true genius lies in the legacy they leave behind. Their contributions reverberate through time, profoundly influencing their field of expertise or even permeating broader cultural landscapes. Their work becomes a cornerstone upon which future generations build and innovate.  

While innate ability is a key trait, it is often accompanied by an unwavering passion driven by an insatiable curiosity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. This passion fuels their journey towards greatness. 

In this context, I am reminded of Jeff Bezos talking about an experience at Princeton University in the 1980s when he encountered Yasantha Rajakarunanayake, now a seasoned technologist and scientist in the Bay Area. My own journey led me to Milan University in the 1990s, where I had the privilege of studying alongside Andrea Malchiodi, now a renowned Italian mathematician with an international track record of accomplishments. 

Having these remarkable individuals as peers has served as a reminder of my own position in the world of science. It has consistently prompted me to reevaluate and focus on areas where I could make meaningful impact. These extraordinary minds, whether directly or indirectly, offer invaluable guidance and inspiration. They illuminate a path forward, reminding us that we can aspire to achieve greatness. All it takes is a willingness to keep our eyes open and embrace the opportunities that cross our paths.