Exploring the Eccentric Geniuses of the Past

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In summary, the conversation discusses the topic of eccentric geniuses, specifically focusing on Joseph Fourier and his unusual death. The participants also mention other eccentric mathematicians such as Johann Lambert, Kurt Godel, and Paul Erdos, each with their own unique quirks and contributions to the field of mathematics. The conversation ends with a link to a website showcasing Erdos' accomplishments in number theory.
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zeronem
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I don't know exactly where to post this so I decided to post it here.

I am writing an Informative Speech about Eccentric geniuses of the past, and I was wondering how Joseph Fourier died. So far from what I've read is, that his reason he died was that he believed that by wrapping blankets around him would improve his health. So as a result he tripped and fell down the stairs and killed himself.

So far the eccentric geniuses I am using in my speech are:

Nikola Tesla, John Nash, and Galois. I will use Joseph Fourier If I can find out his eccentric ways. Although John Nash wasn't partly eccentric, his case of Schiznophrenia is something I would like to talk of in the speech. Could you offer me any more names of the Most Brilliant Eccentric Mathematicians?
 
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  • #2
Could you offer me any more names of the Most Brilliant Eccentric Mathematicians?
Johann Lambert: He always spoke to other persons offering them only one side of his face, cause he was traumatized by his very big forehead
Kurt Godel: He died of hunger, refusing to eat because he thought that people wanted to poison him
Here's a portrait of Lambert
http://bdaugherty.tripod.com/berlin/peopleL.html
 
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  • #3
Interesting! Thank you for contributing the names.

I also found a brilliant Mathematician named Paul Erdos who somewhat lived his life different from any other Mathematician. He had no home really, though he pretty much traveled from University to University. He had Mathematicians all over that would allow him to stay in there house for a while. They would provide him Food, Clothing, and a room with a bed. As he stayed he would talk Mathematics. He would also make money by lecturing at Mathematics Conferences and such. He would often donate the money he made to help students. One particular Mathematician named Graham, had a room specially for Erdos where he could live if he wanted to and whenever he wanted to. Other then he was a traveler. A traveling Mathematician to be more precise. He made lots of Contributions to Mathematics. Particularly in Number Theory. He was more of a problem solver, solving difficult problems in Number Theory. He would develop his own Problems as well.

http://www-gap.dcs.st-and.ac.uk/~history/PictDisplay/Erdos.html
 

FAQ: Exploring the Eccentric Geniuses of the Past

Who are some of the most famous eccentric geniuses from the past?

Some of the most famous eccentric geniuses from the past include Albert Einstein, Nikola Tesla, Isaac Newton, Leonardo da Vinci, and Galileo Galilei.

What made these eccentric geniuses stand out?

These eccentric geniuses were known for their unconventional thinking, unique ideas, and remarkable contributions to various fields such as science, art, and mathematics.

How did their eccentricities affect their work and legacy?

Their eccentricities often led to their groundbreaking discoveries and inventions. Their unconventional approaches and out-of-the-box thinking allowed them to see things from a different perspective, leading to their significant contributions to their respective fields. Their legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of scientists and thinkers.

Were these eccentric geniuses widely accepted during their time?

Some of these eccentric geniuses faced criticism and rejection from their peers and society due to their unconventional ideas and behaviors. However, as time passed, their brilliance and contributions were recognized and celebrated.

Can we learn anything from these eccentric geniuses?

Absolutely! These eccentric geniuses remind us that thinking outside the box and embracing our uniqueness can lead to groundbreaking discoveries and innovations. They also teach us to never give up on our ideas and to keep pushing the boundaries of what is known and accepted.

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