Some concepts in life can be difficult for many to grasp, often requiring a deeper level of thinking and intellectual curiosity that only a few possess. For those who enjoy unraveling complex ideas, certain topics hold a special appeal. Here is a selection of ideas that typically resonate with those who have a keen intellect.
Philosophical Questions
Very clever people like to question how deeply they can think by trying to answer philosophical questions. It’s also a way to help them understand human existence and any implications it may have. Trying to answer these deep and meaningful questions also tests their analytical skills.
Cryptography
Cyber Talents tells us, “Crypto as a word is inspired by the Ancient Greek “κρυπτός” / “kryptós” which means “hidden, secret.” It’s the art of using hidden codes to ensure a third party can’t read anything private, and clever people love trying to crack them. It’s a mental challenge that requires a lot of brain power.
High-Level Programming Languages
Very clever people find it much easier to understand programming languages such as Haskell and Prolog. A person needs to have a high level of logic and problem-solving skills to be able to understand them. It can also come in handy in everyday life, as there are applications that use these languages.
Economic Theories
It’s easier for smarter people to work out economic theories that predict market trends. These theories can include Keynesian economics and market efficiency. Very clever people can then apply these theories to current global markets. It’s an intellectual challenge that applies theories to real-world scenarios.
Artistic Techniques
Very clever people don’t just like figuring out charts and numbers; they’re also interested in art. They enjoy trying to figure out artistic techniques that have been used by famous artists. This can include analyzing any symbolism in their work to gain a deeper understanding of what’s been created.
Musical Composition
There’s a lot of theory that goes into musical composition, and smart people love trying to figure it out. For example, the School of Composition writes, “Music theory is a science when it helps us understand how sounds work to become music, and when it tells us how composers of the past did it.”
Literary Techniques
Modernist literature has many literary techniques applied to it, especially by authors such as James Joyce. It explores a stream of consciousness as well as other narrative techniques. Clever people enjoy reading books that have these techniques as they challenge a reader’s comprehension.
Psychological Theories
Psychological theories such as cognitive dissonance and confirmation bias are concepts smart people like to look out for in their daily interactions with others. They enjoy it when they discover real-life examples that demonstrate these theories. There are also many benefits that come with understanding psychological theories.
Digital User Interface Design
There are many principles in UI that go unnoticed, but very clever people are aware of them. They understand that there’s a cognitive science behind the user experience and they find it enjoyable to find hidden elements in digital UI that no one else can see.
Mastering Multiple Languages
Smart people understand that there are many cognitive benefits that come with knowing multiple languages. They’re aware that knowing different languages can help them culturally, especially if they plan to travel. Even though it’s a skill that takes time, they understand how important it is.
International Relations
According to Uncover IE, international relations “focuses on the impacts of global development while giving you a deeper understanding of current international issues such as climate change and human rights.” Understanding international relations means a person can stay on top of any negotiations and peace talks in the world.
Ancient Civilizations
There are many mysteries centered around ancient civilizations and very clever people love being able to figure them out. This can mean taking part in activities such as deciphering lost languages and scripts or researching ancient architecture and the technology they used to build what they did.
Organic Chemistry
Organic chemistry has many complexities but smart people are fully aware of their molecular structures and reactions. They like to be aware of this, as organic chemistry is something that affects our everyday lives. It can also be a challenge to visualize these complex molecules.
Puzzles Hidden in Everyday Conversations
Sometimes people can purposely create puzzles in everyday conversations, such as in the form of riddles. These word plays are something that very clever people can figure out. Having an understanding of these linguistic tricks reflects a high level of cognitive processes.
Games like Chess and Go
There’s a lot of cognitive power needed for games such as chess. For example, Healthline writes, “Chess involves an intense intellectual challenge that’s very good for the health of your mind.” The game can reflect strategic thinking in real life, along with many other cognitive benefits.
Complex Patterns
It’s far easier for very clever people to interpret visual data, such as graphs and charts. This becomes especially handy if they have to analyze anything financial or demographic, especially for work purposes. Being able to read complex patterns can be a huge benefit in everyday life.
Advanced Theoretical Physics Concepts
Physics concepts such as quantum mechanics and relativity can leave many people feeling confused, but very clever people are easily able to grasp them. Real-world phenomena are explained in these theories and clever people enjoy challenging their everyday logic.
Statistical Theories
Smart people know just how important statistics are because they help create facts. They also play a huge role in scientific discoveries, which is why they’re loved so much. Examples of complex statistical methods include multivariate regression, which helps to validate crucial findings.
Logic Puzzles
Many puzzles require lateral thinking, and smart people love that these really work their brains. These puzzles can’t be solved through straightforward logic and require extra brain power to figure them out. There are many techniques that can be used to try and solve these puzzles, which can help strengthen cognitive function.
Quantum Computing
Smart people understand the basic principles of quantum computing. They like to be aware of this because it can have an impact on the future of our technology and society. Being able to understand quantum computing requires a new way of thinking, and clever people like that it uses their brains.