Wired for Greatness: The Relationship That Sparked the Electromagnetic Revolution

Think about the people who have shaped the way you think, work, or approach life. Was it a teacher, a mentor, or even a stranger whose words stuck with you? Often, the lessons that stay with us the longest come from those we have observed closely.

A Lesson in Conversations and Influence

Most people who talk to me would say that I am a good conversationalist. I can hold a discussion on a wide range of topics, ask engaging questions, and keep a conversation flowing naturally. But this is not something I was born with—it was something I learned, and it all traces back to one person.

During my university days, I had a mentor who fundamentally changed the way I saw the world. He was not a professor, nor someone with official authority over me—he was simply someone I respected deeply. He had an incredible ability to hold conversations, not just with friends and colleagues, but with complete strangers.

Three days a week, I would follow him as he walked through campus and the city, striking up conversations with people from all walks of life. He never hesitated to approach strangers, hand them a leaflet about a cause he deeply believed in, and engage them in meaningful discussion. Some people ignored him, some dismissed him outright, but many stopped, listened, and talked. He never forced his views—he simply shared ideas and invited people to think.

For two to three years, I absorbed everything. His patience, his curiosity, his ability to make people feel heard. Without realizing it at the time, my own ability to hold a conversation was shaped in those moments. What began as observation turned into understanding, and eventually, into something I could apply in my own life. Even now, I often reflect on those days and realize how much I owe to that experience.

That experience of mentorship, learning through observation and practice, is not uncommon in history. One of the greatest scientific minds of all time, Michael Faraday, followed a similar path—except his focus was not on conversation, but on unraveling the mysteries of nature.

The Relationship That Sparked a Revolution

Michael Faraday’s journey from a bookbinder’s apprentice to one of the greatest scientists in history began with an opportunity given to him by Sir Humphry Davy.

As Brian Clegg describes in his book 10 Days in Physics That Shook the World, Faraday’s fascination with science led him to attend Davy’s lectures at the Royal Institution. Inspired, he meticulously recorded his notes and bound them into a book, which he later sent to Davy along with a request for a position.

Davy, impressed by his dedication, gave Faraday a role as his assistant. This opportunity brought Faraday into the world of experimental science, chemistry, and physics, exposing him to research that would shape his future discoveries.

The Achievements That Changed the World

Faraday’s greatest contribution to science came on November 25, 1831, when he presented his discovery of electromagnetic induction. He demonstrated that moving a magnet through a coil of wire could generate an electric current, a principle that became the foundation of electric generators and transformers.

This discovery was nothing short of revolutionary. Before Faraday, electricity was a curiosity—something that could be observed but not harnessed effectively. His work changed that. The modern power grid, electric motors, and nearly all electrical technology exist because of his insights.

Beyond electricity, he made groundbreaking discoveries in chemistry, including the discovery of benzene, an essential compound still used today. He also pioneered electrochemistry, introducing terms like electrode, ion, and cathode, which are now fundamental in the field.

But perhaps his greatest legacy was not just in science—it was in how he shared knowledge. Faraday believed science should be accessible, not reserved for an elite few. He dedicated himself to public lectures, making complex ideas understandable for everyday people.

A Relationship That Shifted from Support to Rivalry

Like many mentorships, Davy and Faraday’s relationship evolved over time—but not in the way one might expect.

As Faraday’s discoveries gained attention, Davy saw him as competition and distanced himself. He even opposed Faraday’s election to the Royal Society, siding with those who questioned his contributions.

Faraday, however, did not engage in the conflict. He let his work define his legacy.

Lessons in Leadership from Faraday’s Journey

Faraday’s story is not just about science. It is about curiosity, resilience, and the courage to keep learning. His journey holds valuable lessons:

• Learn by Observing and Doing – Just as I learned the art of conversation by watching my mentor, Faraday learned science by working under Davy and experimenting with his own hands. Real learning happens through experience.
• Your Background Does Not Define Your Potential – Faraday came from a working-class family with no formal education. Yet, he became one of the greatest scientific minds in history. Passion and persistence matter more than pedigree.
• Share Knowledge Freely – Faraday did not hoard his discoveries; he made them accessible to all. Great leaders educate and inspire others.

A Legacy Bigger Than the Relationship That Sparked It

That day in 1831 was more than a scientific presentation—it was when electricity became a force to harness, not just observe.

Faraday, the Father of Electricity, built the foundation of our modern world, but like all great minds, he was shaped by the relationships that influenced him—for better or worse. His journey, like mine with my mentor, began with following, observing, and absorbing—until he found his own way forward.

I often think back to those days walking beside my mentor, watching him engage with strangers, handing out leaflets, and sparking conversations. The greatest lessons are often unspoken—passed down through action, persistence, and curiosity.

Faraday’s story is proof that while mentorship can shift, strain, or even break, the influence it leaves behind shapes a legacy—one that outlasts the relationship itself.