Book · 1992 · Biography & Autobiography
Genius
The Life and Science of Richard Feynman
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And special thanks to James Gleick for writing Genius, his biography of Richard Feynman. It has been very helpful to us.
Stephen Dubner · Freakonomics Radio · May 2026 Why people recommend it
Genius by James Gleick is widely recognized as the definitive biography of the renowned physicist Richard Feynman, originally published in 1992. On Freakonomics Radio during updates in May 2026, host Stephen Dubner repeatedly referenced the publication while exploring Feynman's life and legacy. Dubner specifically thanked James Gleick for writing the biography, noting that the text had been immensely helpful for their program's deep dives into the scientist's fascinating persona. Furthermore, Dubner cited specific passages from the book to illustrate the complexities and controversies surrounding Feynman, such as his reputation and behavior while teaching at Cornell University. By drawing directly from Gleick's thorough research, the podcast illuminated the multifaceted nature of a man whose very name became synonymous with brilliance. The biography served as an essential resource for the show, allowing the host to present a grounded and comprehensive portrait that balanced Feynman's monumental scientific achievements with his complicated personal life, cementing the enduring value of Gleick's biographical work.
Every mention
Stephen Dubner And special thanks to James Gleick for writing Genius, his biography of Richard Feynman. It has been very h… 3
“The word most commonly attached to Richard Feynman would seem to be genius. That is the title of the definitive Feynman biography, published in 1992 by James Gleick.”
“For years, Feynman had cultivated a reputation as a womanizer of the worst sort. James Gleick, in his book Genius, reports that while he was teaching at Cornell, Feynman slept with undergraduates and the wives of graduate students.”
“And special thanks to James Gleick for writing Genius, his biography of Richard Feynman. It has been very helpful to us.”
