Marshall Brain, the visionary behind HowStuffWorks, leaves a lasting legacy of innovation and education. His curiosity-driven approach to explaining complex concepts has inspired generations.
Remembering Marshall Brain, Founder of HowStuffWorks
Marshall Brain’s life was a testament to the power of curiosity and innovation. As the founder of HowStuffWorks, he spent decades educating, informing, and inspiring countless students, entrepreneurs, and web surfers.
The Endless Curiosity of Marshall Brain
Brain’s fascination with technology began at a young age, thanks in part to his father’s work in the aerospace industry. His lifelong passion for understanding how things work led him to create HowStuffWorks.com as a hobby project in 1998. The website quickly gained popularity, providing easy-to-understand explanations of complex concepts and mechanisms.
A Legacy of Innovation
HowStuffWorks was not Brain’s only venture. He wrote several books on topics ranging from robotics and artificial intelligence to the future of humanity. His science fiction novel “Manna: Two Visions of Humanity’s Future” explores a world where automation and robotics have replaced human labor. In his 2015 book “The Second Intelligent Species,” Brain argues that these technologies will become increasingly prevalent, potentially rendering humans obsolete.
Media Attention and Exposure
Brain’s success with HowStuffWorks led to media attention and exposure on various platforms. He was a popular guest on shows like “The Oprah Winfrey Show” and “Good Morning America.” He also hosted two television programs on the National Geographic Channel, examining the mass production of products like tennis balls and beer.
‘How God Works’ and the Power of Atheism
As a devout atheist, Brain published several books challenging the debate about the existence of a higher power. His book “How ‘God‘ Works: A Logical Inquiry on Faith” (2015) sparked online debates worldwide. In his TED Talks, Brain discussed topics like global warming and the meaning of life, advocating for a more sustainable future.
Engineering Entrepreneurs Program
Brain’s impact extended beyond HowStuffWorks. As the director of the Engineering Entrepreneurs Program at North Carolina State University from 2012-2024, he encouraged engineering students to develop inventions that could change the world. One notable invention was Undercover Colors, a line of nail polishes designed to detect date rape drugs.
Campus Controversy and Brain’s Death
Tragically, Brain passed away on November 20, 2024, just hours after sending an email to friends and colleagues at North Carolina State University. He claimed that he was being forced out by the powers that be due to a recent announcement of his retirement. A memorial service was held on December 8, with dozens of former students and colleagues posting emotional messages online.
Brain’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations through his work at HowStuffWorks and the Engineering Entrepreneurs Program. His unique gift for explaining complex concepts made him an incredible teacher and mentor, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives.
- howstuffworks.com | Remembering Marshall Brain, Founder of HowStuffWorks
