What Is Savant Syndrome?

Savant syndrome is a curious phenomenon that presents itself as a particular strength or talent in the affected individual. Unlike mental giftedness, which can present itself with high-functioning mental acumen in multiple areas, savant syndrome emerges as the demonstration of one particular strength or talent despite otherwise lower or incapacitated cognitive function. Savant syndrome is a rare phenomenon, and even medical professionals debate the causes from which it arises. Although the cause of savant syndrome remains contested, what can be pinpointed is savants typically display a superior memory and one specific talent within music, the arts, mathematics, or science.