Unlocking the Einstein Effect: A Social Media Phenomenon Explored Through the Eyes of His Online Alter Ego

Albert Einstein has reached new heights of social media fame, surpassing even Hollywood icon Tom Hanks on Facebook with a staggering 20 million followers. Managed by Benyamin Cohen, Einstein’s online alter ego engages in interactions and responds to queries with poignant quotes from his lifetime repertoire.

In his latest book, ‘The Einstein Effect: How the World’s Favorite Genius Got into Our Cars, Our Bathrooms, and Our Minds,’ Cohen delves into the fascinating influence of Einstein on modern culture, drawing from the vast collection of Einstein-related anecdotes and memorabilia from the Einstein Archives.

Cohen, a resident of West Virginia and news director at The Forward, sheds light on Einstein’s enduring legacy, attributing much of today’s technological advancements to the physicist’s groundbreaking theories. From GPS and laser eye surgery to fiber optic cables and weather forecasting, Einstein’s contributions remain pivotal.

One of the captivating tales Cohen shares involves the infamous theft of Einstein’s brain, orchestrated by a pathologist posthumously in a bid to unlock the secrets of intelligence. This heist, as Cohen labels it, marked a daring attempt to unravel the workings of one of history’s greatest minds.

While Cohen’s engagement with Einstein spans both the scholarly and the eccentric, ranging from Einstein’s pipe collection to the auction of his personal items at exorbitant prices, the physicist’s societal impact remains paramount.

Additionally, Cohen emphasizes Einstein’s humanitarian endeavors, notably his founding of the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in 1933, which continues its noble mission to aid those in perilous situations, as evidenced by its recent efforts in assisting Ukrainians during conflict.

A key aspect of Einstein’s personal narrative is his connection to Israel, marked by his contributions to the Hebrew University and his profound influence on the scientific community within the region. Einstein’s refusal of the presidency of Israel, as recounted by Cohen, underlines the physicist’s humility and unwavering dedication to his principles.

Cohen’s engaging narrative on Einstein’s life and legacy provides a fresh perspective on the beloved genius’s impact on society, bridging the gap between historical significance and contemporary relevance through Einstein’s lively online persona, expertly crafted by Cohen himself.