There is also a difference between invention and innovation (including successful commercialization.)
Apple didn't invent GUI-based computers, MP3 players, smartphones, tablet PCs, smartwatches, wireless earphones, or ARM-based laptops. But the Mac, iPod, iPhone, iPad, Apple watch, AirPods, and M1 MacBook Air were all category-defining products.
At a fundamental level, our society works by giving the corporate spokesperson credit for everything thought up or done in their organization. Really, credit for a whole lotta other claims too. CEOs and spokespeople are more brand avatars with megaphones, than actual people dealing in fact. Unfortunately this setup confuses hero worshippers.
There is also a difference between invention and innovation (including successful commercialization.)
Apple didn't invent GUI-based computers, MP3 players, smartphones, tablet PCs, smartwatches, wireless earphones, or ARM-based laptops. But the Mac, iPod, iPhone, iPad, Apple watch, AirPods, and M1 MacBook Air were all category-defining products.
At a fundamental level, our society works by giving the corporate spokesperson credit for everything thought up or done in their organization. Really, credit for a whole lotta other claims too. CEOs and spokespeople are more brand avatars with megaphones, than actual people dealing in fact. Unfortunately this setup confuses hero worshippers.
WSJ Gift link: https://www.wsj.com/tech/us-famous-inventions-inventors-wron...
didn't work? try this: https://archive.fo/20260412163711/https://www.wsj.com/tech/u...
Personally I think Gauss gets a little more credit than he strictly deserves.