35 Facts About Marilyn Vos Savant

Early Life and Background

Marilyn Vos Savant, known for her remarkable intelligence, has a fascinating early life that shaped her future achievements.

1. Born on August 11, 1946, in St. Louis, Missouri, Marilyn Vos Savant grew up in a family of Italian and German descent.
2. Her birth name was Marilyn Mach, but she later adopted her mother's maiden name, Vos Savant, which means "wise" in French.
3. Marilyn displayed exceptional intelligence from a young age, reportedly reading the entire set of the Encyclopedia Britannica by the age of 10.
4. She attended Meramec Community College and later Washington University in St. Louis but left before completing her degree to help with the family investment business.

Record-Breaking IQ

Marilyn Vos Savant is best known for her record-breaking IQ, which has been a topic of fascination and debate.

5. In 1985, The Guinness Book of World Records listed her as having the highest recorded IQ, with a score of 228.
6. Her IQ was tested using the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale, a widely recognized measure of intelligence.
7. Despite her high IQ, Marilyn has often emphasized the importance of wisdom and common sense over raw intelligence.
8. The Guinness Book of World Records eventually retired the category of "Highest IQ" in 1990 due to the controversy and varying methods of measurement.

Career and Achievements

Marilyn's career spans various fields, including writing, lecturing, and problem-solving.

9. She began her career as a writer, contributing to local newspapers and magazines in St. Louis.
10. In 1986, she started writing the "Ask Marilyn" column for Parade magazine, where she answers readers' questions on a wide range of topics.
11. Her column became immensely popular, reaching millions of readers every week.
12. Marilyn has authored several books, including "Brain Building" and "The Power of Logical Thinking."
13. She has been a guest on numerous television shows, including "The Oprah Winfrey Show" and "60 Minutes."

Personal Life

Marilyn's personal life is as intriguing as her professional achievements.

14. She married Robert Jarvik, the inventor of the Jarvik-7 artificial heart, in 1987.
15. The couple has collaborated on various projects, including promoting heart health and medical advancements.
16. Marilyn and Robert have two children together, a son and a daughter.
17. She is known for her philanthropic efforts, supporting causes related to education and medical research.

Contributions to Science and Education

Marilyn Vos Savant has made significant contributions to science and education through her writing and public speaking.

18. She has been a strong advocate for critical thinking and logical reasoning, often addressing these topics in her columns and books.
19. Marilyn has been involved in various educational initiatives, including serving on the board of directors for the National Council on Economic Education.
20. She has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to education and public understanding of science.
21. Marilyn has been a keynote speaker at various conferences and events, sharing her insights on intelligence, problem-solving, and education.

Interesting Facts and Trivia

Here are some lesser-known facts and trivia about Marilyn Vos Savant that highlight her unique personality and interests.

22. Marilyn enjoys playing the piano and has a deep appreciation for classical music.
23. She is an avid reader, with a particular interest in philosophy and science fiction.
24. Marilyn has a keen interest in puzzles and brainteasers, often incorporating them into her columns and books.
25. She has a pet cat named Einstein, named after the famous physicist Albert Einstein.
26. Marilyn is known for her witty and humorous writing style, which has endeared her to readers worldwide.
27. She has a strong online presence, with a dedicated following on social media platforms.

Controversies and Criticisms

Despite her many achievements, Marilyn Vos Savant has faced her share of controversies and criticisms.

28. Some critics have questioned the validity of her IQ score, arguing that different tests yield different results.
29. Marilyn's responses in her "Ask Marilyn" column have sometimes sparked debate and controversy, particularly on topics related to mathematics and logic.
30. She has been accused of oversimplifying complex issues in her writing, though many appreciate her ability to make difficult concepts accessible.
31. Despite these criticisms, Marilyn remains a respected and influential figure in the fields of intelligence and education.

Legacy and Impact

Marilyn Vos Savant's legacy extends beyond her record-breaking IQ, leaving a lasting impact on various fields.

32. Her work has inspired countless individuals to pursue knowledge and develop their critical thinking skills.
33. Marilyn's contributions to education and public understanding of science have been widely recognized and celebrated.
34. She has paved the way for future generations of women in science and education, serving as a role model and mentor.
35. Marilyn Vos Savant's life and achievements continue to be a source of inspiration and fascination for people around the world.

Marilyn Vos Savant: A Life of Curiosity and Achievement

Marilyn Vos Savant's life is a testament to the power of curiosity and intellect. Known for her record-breaking IQ, she has inspired countless individuals to pursue knowledge and question the world around them. Her contributions to literature, problem-solving, and public discourse have left an indelible mark. From her famous "Ask Marilyn" column to her thought-provoking books, Vos Savant has shown that intelligence isn't just about knowing facts but about thinking critically and creatively. Her journey reminds us that the pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong adventure. Whether you're a fan of puzzles, a lover of literature, or someone who enjoys a good intellectual challenge, Marilyn Vos Savant's story offers something for everyone. Her legacy continues to encourage us to ask questions, seek answers, and never stop learning.