Brilliance in Exile: The Diaspora of Hungarian Scientists from John Von Neumann to Katalin Kariko

Brilliance in Exile explores the reasons why Hungarian scientists excelled in exile, combining scholarly analysis with fascinating portrayals of unique individuals. The appeal of an open society with inclusivity, tolerance, and better working and living conditions drove five waves of emigration from the early twentieth century to the present. The book highlights the distinctive features of Hungarian scientist emigration, including the high number of Nobel Prizes, multicultural tolerance, a rapidly emerging Jewish middle class, and an effective secondary school system.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 342 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2023
Publisher: Central European University Press

Brilliance in Exile is a captivating exploration of the remarkable success of Hungarian emigrant scientists, delving into the intricate tapestry of their lives. By combining scholarly analysis with captivating portrayals of unique individuals, this book sheds light on the enigmatic factors that propelled five distinct waves of emigration from the early twentieth century to the present. While emigration from East to West is a widespread phenomenon, Brilliance in Exile unravels the distinctive nature of the emigration of Hungarian scientists. The high number of Nobel Prizes among this cohort is merely one testament to their exceptional achievements. Multicultural tolerance, a burgeoning Jewish urban middle class, and an exceptionally effective secondary school system were hallmarks of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, leaving lasting legacies that shaped multiple generations. However, as the environment became increasingly exclusionary, intolerant, antisemitic, and economically stagnant, these individuals sought solace elsewhere, embracing the metaphor of "roots versus wings."

Leo Szilard, one of the pioneers of the Atom Bomb, aptly expressed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of roots while recognizing the need for wings when circumstances dictate. Brilliance in Exile serves as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of these scientists, who overcame adversity and left an indelible mark on the world through their scientific contributions. Through their personal stories, this book offers a profound understanding of the complexities and motivations that drove them to pursue their dreams beyond their homeland, ultimately contributing to the global scientific community.

Weight: 506g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789633866061