I think what he writes is true: one does not have to be a genius to do mathematics. But: - He says that a reasonable intelligence is needed (I think it is s

I think what he writes is true: one does not have to be a genius to do mathematics. But: - He says that a reasonable intelligence is needed (I think it is something like an IQ of at least 120, so most of the population would have no chance. Come on, I know some guys who suffered very heavily from high school math even if they tried hard. But certainly a genius level is not needed to do math). - Reaching the level of Terry Tao is impossible without being brutally talented. I have heard it from good, very smart, successful and extremely hard working (and enthusiastic) mathematicians. Other mathematicians achieved big things when they were children but Terry Tao consistently was ahead of even them. (Like winning a bronze medal at the International Mathematical Olimpiad being 10 years old) Being a genius is an AND combination: talent and hard work. The 'talent is overrated' statement is true: most people underestimate hard work. This is similar to bodybuilding: most people think that steroids alone are enough to be a body builder champion. No: very lucky genetics AND steroids AND extremely hard work are needed.