8 of the Most Amazing Savants in History
Savant Syndrome
A rare and extraordinary condition in which persons suffering from severe mental disabilities including brain injury or disease and autism spectrum disorder, exhibit one or more areas of expertise or brilliance. These exceptional abilities stand in contrast with their overall disability and are described by Dr. Darold Treffer as “islands of genius” in his book by the same name.
As many as one in 10 persons with autistic disorders display some sort of remarkable ability which manifest itself in varying degrees. These amazing skills are always linked to massive memory which could include remembering facts, rapid calculation, artistic and musical ability as well as map making. Typically, only one ability is present.
Approximately half of those with savant syndrome suffer from autism spectrum disorder or have a brain injury. The ones who suffer from autism are also known as “autistic savants.” While some cases become apparent later in life, most cases develop during childhood. Savant syndrome is not considered a mental disorder. Instead, it is a rare condition that affects about one in a million people, with male savants being more common than their female counterparts. It is estimated that fewer than a hundred savants possessing extraordinary skills are alive today.
