1. Early Life: Chris Langan was born on March 25, 1952, in San Francisco, California. He grew up in poverty and had a difficult childhood, often facing neglect and abuse. 2. High IQ: Langan has been reported to have an IQ score of around 195-210, which is significantly higher than the average IQ of 100. His exceptional intelligence has earned him the title of "the smartest man in America." 3. Academic Achievements: Despite his challenging upbringing, Langan excelled academically. He received a scholarship to Reed College but dropped out due to financial constraints. He later attended Montana State University but also dropped out due to personal reasons. 4. Cognitive-Theoretic Model of the Universe: Langan has developed a comprehensive theory called the "Cognitive-Theoretic Model of the Universe" (CTMU). This theory combines elements of philosophy, mathematics, and cognitive science to propose a new understanding of reality. 5. Career: Langan has worked in various jobs throughout his life, including as a construction worker, bouncer, and cowboy. He has also pursued his intellectual interests independently, focusing on his theory and writing. 6. Media Attention: Langan gained significant media attention when he appeared on the television show "1 vs. 100" in 2008. He answered several challenging questions correctly and showcased his exceptional knowledge and intellect.

7. Criticism and Controversy: Langan's claims and theories have faced criticism from the scientific community. Some experts argue that his ideas lack empirical evidence and are based on speculative reasoning. 8. Personal Life: Langan has faced personal challenges throughout his life, including financial struggles and difficulties maintaining stable employment. He has also experienced legal issues and has been involved in lawsuits regarding his theory. 9. Legacy: Despite the controversies surrounding Langan and his theories, he continues to be an intriguing figure in the field of intelligence and cognitive science. His story raises questions about the relationship between intelligence and success and challenges traditional notions of intellectual achievement. It is important to approach Langan's claims and theories critically and consider them within the context of scientific research and evidence-based knowledge. While he may possess exceptional intelligence, it is crucial to evaluate ideas based on their merit and empirical support.