Genius focuses on historical figures such as Einstein, Picasso, and Aretha Franklin, primarily basing stories on their achievements rather than identity politics. While there may be some modern interpretation of their lives, overall, the narrative respects individual complexity and historical context. Forced representation or overly perfect characterizations are rare.

The show generally respects historical settings, cultures, and traditional values. Some episodes might lightly reinterpret situations to align with modern sensitivities, but it rarely undermines religion, family, or masculinity in an overt way. Any subversion is subtle and secondary to the primary biographical storytelling.

While the series sometimes frames events through a present-day lens, it usually provides context and nuance, portraying both the achievements and flaws of its subjects without flattening alternative perspectives. Dissenting views appear as complex, not mere caricatures. Ideological diversity is more present than in most recent TV.