generalism

Generalism is a broad orientation toward knowledge and practice characterized by engagement with multiple domains rather than deep specialization in a single field. Generalists seek to integrate ideas and methods from different disciplines to solve complex problems, drawing on a wide repertoire of skills and concepts. This contrasts with specialization, where the emphasis is on depth of knowledge in a particular domain.

In education, generalism is associated with liberal arts traditions, general education requirements, and curricula designed to cultivate transferable skills such as critical thinking, communication, and systems thinking. In the workforce, generalists may fill roles that require cross-functional coordination, strategic planning, or product oversight, where breadth complements depth in a specific area.

Historical and contemporary examples include Renaissance polymaths who pursued knowledge across many fields, and modern professional roles such as product managers, consultants, or general practitioners, who operate across domains rather than within a single silo. The concept is sometimes framed through the idea of T-shaped skills: broad breadth across many disciplines with a deeper competency in one domain.

Critics argue that generalism may come at the expense of mastery and that some tasks require sustained deep expertise. Proponents counter that breadth supports adaptability, innovation, and systems thinking, and that effective generalists develop depth selectively in complementary areas. Balancing breadth and depth remains a central question in education, career development, and organizational design.

See also: polymath, specialist, interdisciplinarity, liberal arts, T-shaped skills.