In theory, the Nobel’s prize money is meant to support the winners in future endeavours. So not much point if they’re dead. IIRC Nobel didn’t really intend it to be about fame and glory, it was meant to be supporting development in those fields the Nobels were allocated to.
I can see the point: if I’d done potentially Nobel-worthy work, I’d rather be honored while I’m alive—after I’m dead, they might as well award it to someone who can still appreciate it.
Only living people can win the prize. If they die between the announcement and the ceremony they still get it posthumously. I’m pretty sure that has happened now and then.
If they turn out to be dead, that would be a shame. Can’t have the award. Secondly, that would make the committee look bad.
EDIT: Just to be clear in case you are unaware, only people who are alive can qualify for an award.
Well, that’s a rule that needs to fucking change.
If someone can posthumously win an Oscar or a Grammy, why not a Nobel?
In theory, the Nobel’s prize money is meant to support the winners in future endeavours. So not much point if they’re dead. IIRC Nobel didn’t really intend it to be about fame and glory, it was meant to be supporting development in those fields the Nobels were allocated to.
I can see the point: if I’d done potentially Nobel-worthy work, I’d rather be honored while I’m alive—after I’m dead, they might as well award it to someone who can still appreciate it.
Only living people can win the prize. If they die between the announcement and the ceremony they still get it posthumously. I’m pretty sure that has happened now and then.