Stephen Hawking | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : January 22, 2025

Who is Stephen Hawking?

Stephen Hawking was a groundbreaking British physicist, cosmologist, and author, renowned for his revolutionary contributions to our understanding of the universe. Born on January 8, 1942, in Oxford, England, Hawking became a global icon for science, particularly in the realms of black holes and the Big Bang theory. A member of the University of Cambridge's faculty, he held the prestigious position of Lucasian Professor of Mathematics, a post once occupied by Isaac Newton. Despite a diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at age 21 that gradually paralyzed him, Hawking's intellect and determination allowed him to continue his influential research and bring intricate scientific concepts to the general public through best-selling books.

Hawking's seminal work, "A Brief History of Time," published in 1988, made complex ideas in cosmology accessible to millions and significantly altered public perception of physics. His pursuit of a unifying theory of the universe demonstrated his remarkable capacity to think beyond conventional limits. He explored daring concepts such as time travel and the possibility of alien life while advocating for humanity’s future in space. Hawking's legacy encompasses not only his academic achievements but also his role as a motivational figure who exemplified resilience and curiosity in the face of adversity. His death on March 14, 2018, marked the loss of a brilliant mind, yet his contributions continue to inspire scientists and individuals around the world.

Early Life and Education

Stephen Hawking, born on January 8, 1942, in Oxford, England, was the eldest child of Frank and Isobel Hawking. Growing up in a family of academics, Hawking was immersed in an environment that valued knowledge and exploration. His mother, a trailblazer for women in academia, attended Oxford University in the 1930s, while his father, a respected medical researcher, greatly influenced Hawking's interest in science. Despite the challenges of World War II and limited finances, the young Hawking developed an early fascination with the cosmos, often stargazing in the backyard with his family, which nurtured his innate sense of wonder about the universe.

Hawking's educational journey began at St. Albans School, where he initially struggled academically, ranking low in his class. However, he demonstrated his intelligence through hands-on projects, constructing a computer with friends to solve mathematical equations. Driven by his passion for science, he entered University College, Oxford, at age 17, opting for physics over mathematics due to the latter's unavailability. His academic performance improved despite limited study hours, leading to his graduation with honors in natural science. He then pursued a Ph.D. in cosmology at Trinity Hall, University of Cambridge, a decision that would ultimately set the stage for his groundbreaking contributions to physics and cosmology.

Career Start: Ph.D. in Cosmology and Early Research

Stephen Hawking's career began to take shape when he pursued a Ph.D. in Cosmology at Trinity Hall, University of Cambridge, in 1963. His early academic journey, marked by a diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at age 21, became pivotal in redirecting his focus towards scientific inquiry. Despite the prognosis suggesting a limited time to live, Hawking's thirst for knowledge intensified. He delved deep into theoretical physics and cosmology, areas he had become passionate about while at the University of Oxford, where he graduated with honors.

During his doctoral research, Hawking made significant strides in understanding black holes and the nature of the universe. He collaborated with notable cosmologist Roger Penrose to expand upon groundbreaking theoretical frameworks regarding black holes and singularities. In 1973, he co-authored "The Large Scale Structure of Space-Time," a critical text that set the stage for his future explorations of black hole radiation. This early work solidified his reputation as an innovative thinker and laid the groundwork for his later scientific contributions, particularly the revolutionary concept of Hawking radiation that transformed the scientific understanding of black holes.

Success and Achievements: Black Holes and Theories of the Universe

Stephen Hawking was a monumental figure in the realm of theoretical physics and cosmology, renowned for his groundbreaking work on black holes and the nature of the universe. Through his innovative research, he challenged conventional wisdom, leading to the revolutionary understanding that black holes emit radiation, which is now known as Hawking radiation. This discovery has profound implications, as it suggests that nothing is entirely lost in a black hole, contradicting the long-held belief that they are information vacuums. His collaborative efforts with fellow physicist Roger Penrose helped further illuminate the complex processes governing star formation and gravitational phenomena.

In addition to his remarkable discoveries, Hawking authored several influential books that brought complex scientific concepts to the layperson. His seminal work, "A Brief History of Time," transformed the landscape of popular science literature, becoming an international bestseller and making profound contributions to the public understanding of cosmology. In works like "The Grand Design," he pushed the boundaries of theoretical physics by proposing that the universe could create itself from nothing, emphasizing the interplay between gravity and the laws of physics. Hawking's legacy continues to inspire new generations of scientists and enthusiasts alike, showcasing the wonders of the cosmos and our deep-seated connection to its mysteries.

Written Works and Public Engagement

Stephen Hawking's literary contributions significantly expanded public understanding of complex scientific concepts. His most famous work, "A Brief History of Time," published in 1988, became a bestseller and illuminated the mysteries of cosmology for readers around the globe. The book delves into fundamental questions about the universe, time, and existence, capturing the imagination of millions. Following this success, he authored several other notable books, including "The Universe in a Nutshell" and "The Grand Design," aimed at demystifying sophisticated theories and showcasing his pursuit of a unifying theory of physics. His ability to simplify intricate ideas without diluting their essence set a new standard in science communication.

In addition to his written works, Hawking was a charismatic figure in popular culture, making numerous television appearances that endeared him to the public. From guest spots on series like "The Big Bang Theory" to his voice cameo in Pink Floyd's "Keep Talking," he seamlessly bridged the gap between academia and entertainment. His commitment to science education extended further with the six-part series "Genius," which challenged viewers to engage with historical scientific questions. Hawking's efforts not only made science approachable but also inspired countless individuals to explore the cosmos, showcasing his belief that knowledge should be shared and celebrated beyond the confines of scholarly circles.

Personal Life: Wife, Children and Relationships

Stephen Hawking's personal life was as remarkable as his scientific contributions. In 1965, he married Jane Wilde, a languages student he met at a New Year’s party. The couple welcomed three children into the world: Robert, born in 1967, Lucy in 1970, and Timothy in 1979. Despite the challenges posed by Hawking's deteriorating health due to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), their marriage flourished for many years, with Jane playing a crucial role in his care and support during his early struggles with the disease.

In 1990, Hawking's marriage to Jane came to an end when he began a relationship with his nurse, Elaine Mason, whom he married in 1995. This new relationship created tensions with his children, who felt distressed by how their father's new marriage affected their bond with him. Allegations of abuse surfaced in 2003, although Hawking denied them, leading to a complex dynamic within the family. Ultimately, his marriage to Elaine dissolved in 2006. Following his divorce, Hawking rebuilt relationships with his children and collaborated with his daughter Lucy on several science-themed children's books, illustrating his dedication to family despite personal challenges.

Net Worth and Earnings: Financial Status

Stephen Hawking, renowned for his profound contributions to physics and cosmology, amassed a significant net worth throughout his illustrious career. By the time of his passing in 2018, it was estimated that his net worth ranged between $20 million to $30 million. A substantial portion of his wealth stemmed from his authorial success, particularly through the sales of his best-selling books like "A Brief History of Time", which has sold over 25 million copies worldwide. This widespread appeal not only secured his financial stability but also helped bridge the gap between complex scientific concepts and the general public.

In addition to book sales, Hawking's earnings were bolstered by his roles in academia and various high-profile speaking engagements. As the Lucasian Professor of Mathematics at the University of Cambridge, a position he held from 1979 until his retirement, he commanded a respectable salary reflective of his esteemed status in the academic community. Furthermore, his participations in conferences, public lectures, and media appearances contributed to his financial portfolio, making him one of the most recognized scientists globally. Despite his health challenges due to ALS, Hawking's financial success underscored his ability to thrive in both the scientific realm and popular culture.