A Quantitative Analysis of Geographic, Gender and Age Distribution of Nobel Prize Laureates (1901-2025)

Resumo

The Nobel Prize serves as a primary indicator of global scientific and cultural prestige. However, quantitative analyses of its distribution often lack the nuance to reveal deep structural inequalities. This study addresses that gap by conducting a comprehensive quantitative analysis of Nobel laureates from 1901-2025 across geography, gender, and age. Using a dataset of nearly 1000 laureates, the analysis employs descriptive statistics and a range of concentration and diversity indices, including the Normalized Herfindahl-Hirschman Index, Shannon Index, and Location Quotient. Results reveal a geographic concentration, with the top 10 countries accounting for 72.5% of all laureates, and a historical shift in hegemony from Europe to North America. The analysis also quantifies a persistent gender gap, with women representing less than 7% of laureates and being severely under-represented in the sciences (for instance, Physics LQ=0.32). Furthermore, significant variations in laureate age by discipline are identified, with Economics laureates being the oldest on average. The study provides a data-driven portrait of the Nobel system, offering a baseline for discussions on equity and diversity in the global recognition of excellence.