Range:Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World

Epstein examined the world’s most successful athletes, artists, musicians, inventors, forecasters, and scientists.  He discovered that in most fields—especially those that are complex and unpredictable—generalists, not specialists, are primed to excel. Generalists often find their path late, and they juggle many interests rather than focusing on one.  They’re also more creative, more agile, and able to make connections their more specialized peers can’t see.

Epstein examined the world’s most successful athletes, artists, musicians, inventors, forecasters, and scientists.  He discovered that in most fields—especially those that are complex and unpredictable—generalists, not specialists, are primed to excel. Generalists often find their path late, and they juggle many interests rather than focusing on one.  They’re also more creative, more agile, and able to make connections their more specialized peers can’t see.
Provocative, rigorous, and gripping, Range makes a compelling case for actively cultivating inefficiency.  Failing a test is the best way to learn.  Frequent quitters end up with the most fulfilling careers.  The most impactful inventors cross domains rather than deepening their knowledge in a single area.