No great mystery -- the coasts are where most of the people live.

Unless you're wondering why there weren't any winners in, say, Texas?

Exactly right, compare it to this map of population density:

http://www.census.gov/population/www/censusdata/maps/density1.jpg

This was published a few years ago:
http://www.slate.com/?id=85794

Thanks Dan. You know, I vaguely recall that piece. Nice seeing a) things haven't changed, and b) the same kind of thing in graphical form for those of who don't read as well as we used to ;-)

Agreed, population density plays a big role here. But you would think given the number of awardees who are at universities, and given how those are spread across the country, you might have seen a little less population-center-centric a distribution of "geniuses". But apparently not.

And yes, damn it, why aren't there are more Texans on the list?

You know, I live in TX and am once again disappointed I did not get called. Between the MacArthur grant and the yearly "Most Beautiful People" published by People Magazine, I wait for too many phone calls which aren't coming. Surely this editorial omission will be rectified shortly. (tongue firmly in cheek)