Stephen Hawking vs Voltaire
Stephen Hawking (IQ 180) vs Voltaire (IQ 190). Side-by-side comparison of intellect, achievements, era and cultural impact.
| Born | 1942 | 1694 |
|---|---|---|
| Died | 2018 | 1778 |
| Country | GB | FR |
| Estimated IQ | 180 | 190 |
| Best known for | Hawking radiation, A Brief History of Time, Penrose–Hawking theorems, Black hole information paradox, Micro black hole, Primordial black hole, Chronology protection conjecture,… | The novel Candide |
Who had the higher IQ?
By the most cited estimates, Voltaire tops this matchup with an estimated IQ of 190, a 10-point margin over Stephen Hawking (180). IQ estimates for historical figures are reconstructions, not test results — they sit on top of biographical evidence, productivity, and the difficulty of the problems each person solved. Treat the number as a directional signal, not a verdict.
Achievements compared
Stephen Hawking is best known for: Hawking radiation, A Brief History of Time, Penrose–Hawking theorems, Black hole information paradox, Micro black hole, Primordial black hole, Chronology protection conjecture,… Voltaire is best known for: The novel Candide
Recognition. Stephen Hawking: Adams Prize (1966) Eddington Medal (1975) Maxwell Medal and Prize (1976) Heineman Prize (1976) Hughes Medal (1976) Albert Einstein Award (1978) Albert Einstein Medal (1979) RAS Gold Medal (1985) Dirac Medal (1987) Wolf Prize (1988) Prince of Asturias Award (1989) Foreign Associate of the National Ac. Voltaire: —.
Different eras, different boards
The two were born roughly 248 years apart (1942 vs 1694), which matters: scientific tools, available knowledge, and intellectual culture compound. Comparing minds across eras is comparing players on different boards.
The verdict
So who was greater? The honest answer: they're not strictly comparable. By raw IQ proxy, Voltaire edges out. By measurable, lasting influence in their respective field, both are anchors of the human record. If you have to pick one to bet civilization on, pick the one working on the problem you care about.