On Savant Syndrome. The New Rain Man.

A fascinating look into the savant world. (Mysteries of the Mind, Part 3)

The CTY (Center for Talented Youth) is a non-profit academic center that researches and documents, among other things, what makes a person a genius. It also shows the extraordinary academic skills of young students. CTY's many above-grade-level tests enable it to do this. It concentrates on advanced learners, grades 2-12. In other words, it is a dedicated school for prospect geniuses.

Until now, and for the most part, we had no idea why some folks became geniuses. We knew the very essential mechanics of it. Someone was born with an extraordinary IQ, genetics, etc. But, we didn't understand how an accident, like a fall, could immediately turn someone into a genius.

How is that possible? There have been many cases like this. For example, people with no math training became math savants.

Others, the same, but with music. Suddenly, they could remember and play hundreds of songs and classical pieces. They did so out of the blue.

Mind-blowing, right? The brain is such an amazing computer that can behave that way, and no one knows why or how.

This research lab will provide us with some answers in the near future. Hopefully.

Geniuses are incredible humans. They have a capacity that exceeds that of most other mortals. That attribute, however, doesn't come without difficulties, especially in the social order.

After all, the changes in some brain sections could also affect other areas.

The latest research reveals that it is impossible to recreate any of these stunning events in a lab. Scientists cannot duplicate any of these sensational possibilities through will or brain surgery. And yet, here they are, clear as day for all to see.

One fact is irrefutable. We are far from being able to discern the remarkable complexity of the human brain. We are still in our infancy and trying to explain how this is possible.

Savant Syndrome

Savant syndrome is rare. It occurs in people with profound mental disabilities. They develop a "locality of genius". Severe head trauma can induce this condition in the left anterior temporal lobe. 

Some research suggests that healthy people can be given savant-like skills. This can be done by inhibiting a certain part of the brain.  

Other research suggests that genetics, environment, and hard work each play a part in making a genius.

Some instances of Savant Syndrome are familiar to many of us in our daily lives.

Several autistic savants have come to public notice over the past three decades. Kim Peek was the model for the film Rain Man. He could memorize a book after one reading. It is said that he memorized over 12,000 books in his life. Musician Leslie Lemke can hear a musical piece once and play it back perfectly. And so many others like him.