Is it that he reads constantly and eclectically?<p>My theory is that his physics and economics degree helps him to think technically and with a business mindset. Added that he reads widely and is talented.<p>In my opinion, the world will be a more interesting place if people learn to think like him.
><i>Is it that he reads constantly and eclectically?</i><p>No, it's mostly that<p>(a) he has the will to ventures in various fields<p>(b) he has the money (from his early ventures) to venture in various fields<p>(c) he hires people who know their stuff in those fields<p>He doesn't have to come up with anything resembling real innovation (a new technique or process) himself. He just have to give his stuff the general direction and push them towards it.<p>Having a technical and business background helps, but don't imagine any Tony Stark like lab research on the technical level done by him personally.