Ten fun facts about Edward O. Wilson

1. A Biography

On June 10, 1929, Edward O. Wilson was born in Birmingham, Alabama, the largest city in the state of Alabama and the cultural and economic center of the region. Wilson, who would go on to become one of the most influential biologists of the 20th century, was born into a family of naturalists and was exposed to the wonders of nature from a young age. His passion for the natural world would eventually lead him to become a two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning author and a leader in the field of sociobiology.

Also → Woodrow Wilson Wins Nobel Peace Prize

2. A Biography

In 1950, Edward O. Wilson received his Master of Science degree in biology from the University of Alabama, where he had received his early training in the field. His studies at the university laid the foundation for his later success as a renowned biologist, naturalist, and author.

Also → Max Delbruck - A Life in Science

3. Wilson's Dyslexia Helped Him Succeed in Science

As a child, Edward O. Wilson suffered a tragic accident that resulted in the loss of sight in his right eye. In addition, he experienced a partial hearing loss during his adolescence, and was diagnosed with a mild form of dyslexia. This learning disability made it difficult for him to comprehend math, a subject that he struggled with throughout his life.

Also → Lynn Margulis: Revolutionizing Species Origins

4. " Ants Re-Imagined"

Despite the fact that Edward O. Wilson was born with a severe vision impairment, he refused to be deterred by his disability and instead chose to focus his attention on the world of tiny creatures. His passion for entomology led him to become the world's leading expert on ants, and his dedication to the study of these creatures has earned him a place in the annals of scientific history.

Also → Ernst Mayr: A Life in Science

5. The Life and Work of Edward O. Wilson

In 1955, Edward O. Wilson earned his doctorate in biology from Harvard University, and he was a part of the Harvard biology and zoology faculties from 1956 to 1976. During this time, he made significant contributions to the fields of biology and zoology, including his groundbreaking work on the study of ants and their behavior. His research and discoveries have had a lasting impact on the scientific community and have helped to shape our understanding of the natural world.

Also → Louis Agassiz: Zoology Pioneer

6. Pheromones: The Ant's Secret Language

In 1956, Edward O. Wilson made a series of groundbreaking discoveries about pheromones, a chemical substance used by ants to communicate. His research revealed that ants used pheromones to mark trails, alert nestmates to danger, and even to recognize each other. This research was a major breakthrough in the field of entomology, and it has since been used to inform our understanding of the behavior of other species.

Also → Morgan's Legacy

7. Nobel Prize-Winning Evolutionary Biologist

In 1978, Edward O. Wilson was awarded the prestigious Pulitzer Prize for his book, "On Human Nature". This book, which delved into the biological and evolutionary aspects of human behavior, was praised for its groundbreaking insights and was a major contribution to the field of evolutionary biology. Wilson's work has since been cited in numerous scientific publications and has been credited with helping to shape the modern understanding of human nature.

Also → James Watson: The Man Who Discovered DNA

8. The Crafoord Prize: A Recognition for Edward O. Wilson

Edward O. Wilson is a renowned biologist and naturalist who was recently awarded the Crafoord Prize by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences. This prestigious award is widely regarded as the highest honor in the field of ecology, as it is awarded in areas that the Nobel Prize does not cover. Wilson's recognition for his work in the field of ecology is a testament to his dedication and expertise in the field.

Also → George Gaylord Simpson: A Pioneer in Evolutionary Biology

9. Anthill: A Novel

In 2010, renowned biologist and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Edward O. Wilson released his debut novel, "Anthill". This unique work of fiction featured both human and insect characters, and was praised for its imaginative and thought-provoking exploration of the complex relationship between humans and the natural world. The novel was a critical success, and was even adapted into a play in 2013.

Also → Konrad Lorenz, Nobel Prize Winner in Physiology, Dies at 80

10. A Scientist with an Outstanding Record

Edward O. Wilson is an esteemed scientist who has been honored with over 100 international awards and medals. He is currently University Research Professor Emeritus at Harvard University and Honorary Curator in Entomology of the Museum of Comparative Zoology. His impressive accolades include two Pulitzer Prizes, the Crafoord Prize, the National Medal of Science, and the International Cosmos Prize. He is also a member of the National Academy of Sciences and the American Philosophical Society.

Also → Linus Pauling: The Man Who Changed Chemistry