The Dictionary defines a Polymath as "a person of great and varied learning" In practice, it has been used to describe only people of extraordinary intellect and erudition, such as Leonardo da Vinci, Blaise Pascal, Rene' Descartes, Isaac Newton, Benjamin Franklin, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe et. al.
Without contradicting that definition, we introduce a second definition to which we refer when using the term within the Polymathic Institute.
A Polymath is a lifelong eclectic learner who uses the Polymathic Method
The Polymathic Method:
1)Identify an interesting question or problem that does not clearly fall within a single subject
2)Determine what body of knowledge and skills are necessary in order to successfully answer the question or solve the problem.
3)Either through targeted learning or tactical collaboration gain access to the necessary body of knowledge and skills.
4)Reconsider the problem or question from the perspective of new knowledge and skills to determine whether the original list of knowledge and skills was sufficient. If not, gain the missing knowledge or skills.
5)Address the problem or answer the question.
Traits of a competent and successful Polymath.
A bachelor level of knowledge over the region that the Polymath intends primarily to work
A well developed sense of curiosity
An ability to work independently
A highly developed ability to design and implement projects
A well developed ability in autonomous learning.
Virtually every profession has a characteristic IQ range that encompasses nearly all members. IQs that are higher or lower than that range will have comparatively less career success. For example, Physicians typically have IQs between 113 and 139.
As discussed in "The Inappropriately Excluded" there are almost no jobs that are appropriate for IQs above about 144. Polymath is one that does with a characteristic mean D15IQ of about 153 with a standard deviation of about 7.5.
The most extraordinary individuals will become Certified Research Polymaths. These Polymaths will have the competency to pursue problems and questions that may lead into virtually any subject. They will comprise no more than 0.05% of the workforce but, properly funded, they can profoundly change society.
We will begin with Leonardo and The Polymath which will employ polymathic writers and editors. However, we will strongly encourage readers to become patrons of Institute Members. Over time, much of the Membership will become engaged in high value added polymathic enterprises through the Institute's Polymathic Enterprise Network.
The above is an introduction to Polymaths and polymathy. The concept is gaining awareness and support and our understanding of the Polymath will increase. Recently, a doctoral dissertation was published that explored the concept very thoroughly.
