45 pages 1 hour read

David Epstein

Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2019

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Range by David Epstein challenges the notion that success must come from early specialization, instead advocating for exploration, flexibility, and a willingness to change. Through stories of individuals like Roger Federer, Johannes Kepler, and Vincent van Gogh, along with research from fields such as psychology and education, Epstein illustrates how generalization and diverse experiences often lead to greater achievement and innovation than highly focused training and expertise. The book includes tragic events such as the 1986 explosion of the space shuttle Challenger.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

David Epstein's Range is praised for its compelling argument that generalists are often more successful than specialists in a complex world. Reviewers commend Epstein's breadth of research and engaging storytelling. However, some critique arises regarding potential overgeneralizations and the anecdotal nature of evidence. Overall, Range is seen as a thought-provoking read that challenges conventional wisdom.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Range?

A reader who would enjoy Range by David Epstein is curious about the benefits of generalism over specialization and intrigued by interdisciplinary thinking. Comparable to Malcolm Gladwell’s Outliers and Daniel Pink’s Drive, they appreciate evidence-backed narratives that challenge conventional wisdom on career and education.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

Business / Economics

Psychology

Science / Nature

Genre

Self Help

Education

Psychology

Themes

Values/Ideas: Fame

Values/Ideas: Art

Values/Ideas: Music