Voltaire vs Wilhelm Ostwald

Who Was the Greater Genius? A Complete Comparison

Voltaire
IQ190
Born1694
Died1778
OriginParis, Kingdom of France
Known ForThe novel Candide
VS
Wilhelm Ostwald
IQ190
Born1853
Died1932
OriginRiga, Governorate of Livonia, Russian Empire
Known ForCatalysis, Coining the term 'Mole' and HSL and HSV

About Voltaire

French writer, historian & philosopher who wrote more than 20,000 letters and 2,000 books and pamphlets.

Read full biography of Voltaire → · In-Depth Article →

About Wilhelm Ostwald

A Baltic German chemist and philosopher who received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1909 for his scientific contributions in the fields of catalysis, chemical equilibria, and reaction velocities.

THE FREE TEST
How high is yours?

Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.

Take the IQ test →

Read full biography of Wilhelm Ostwald → · In-Depth Article →

The Verdict

Both Voltaire and Wilhelm Ostwald have an estimated IQ of 190, placing them among history's greatest minds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who had a higher IQ — Voltaire or Wilhelm Ostwald?

Voltaire had an estimated IQ of 190 while Wilhelm Ostwald had an estimated IQ of 190.

What is each genius known for?

Voltaire is known for: The novel Candide. Wilhelm Ostwald is known for: Catalysis, Coining the term 'Mole' and HSL and HSV.

Are both considered geniuses?

Yes. Both Voltaire and Wilhelm Ostwald are universally regarded as among history's greatest intellects.

Full Profile: VoltaireFull Profile: Wilhelm Ostwald

← Browse all genius comparisons | IQ Rankings

01 · VS

Trending Comparisons

02 · TOP 100

Top IQ Rankings

03 · PRODIGIES

Child prodigies

Child prodigies →
04 · WORLD

Explore geniuses by country

Play & come back tomorrow

Daily Genius Challenge · Brain teaser
A clock takes 5 seconds to strike 6 o'clock. How long to strike 12 o'clock?
Tap your answer ↓
Which Genius Are You? Free IQ Test