TED-Ed
What is "The Thinker" actually thinking about? - Noah Charney
2026 • E29 Apr 14, 2026 6m
Contrary to popular belief, "The Thinker" sculpture isn’t just a universal symbol of eternal contemplation. French sculptor Auguste Rodin intended it to represent a specific person— and fit into a much larger piece featuring the fiery pits of Hell. So, who was "The Thinker," and what was he actually thinking? Noah Charney digs into the secrets of this infamous work of art.