The Myth of the Self-Made Scientist

Psychology Today | 17.06.2026 22:18
When a scientist wins a major award, we instinctively ask what makes that person exceptional. We look for intelligence, determination, creativity, or grit. Rarely do we ask about their collaborators, mentors, or professional network. This tendency reflects a broader inclination in human psychology: We are remarkably good at seeing individuals and remarkably poor at seeing systems.