In this age of specialization, I sometimes think of myself as the last 'generalist' in economics, with interests that range from mathematical economics down to current financial journalism. My real interests are research and teaching.
Interpretation
The quote reflects the value of having a broad knowledge base in a world that often favors specialization.
In this quote, Paul Samuelson expresses a sense of being a 'generalist' in the field of economics, suggesting that while many focus narrowly on specific areas, he values a wide range of interests that encompass both theoretical research and practical journalism. This perspective highlights the importance of interdisciplinary knowledge and the ability to connect various economic concepts and practices, which can enhance understanding and teaching in the field.
In practice
A speaker at a conference on education might use this quote to advocate for a more well-rounded approach to learning.
To a person of analytical ability, perceptive enough to realise that mathematical equipment was a powerful sword in economics, the world of economics was his or her oyster in 1935. The terrain was strewn with beautiful theorems begging to be picked up and arranged in unified order.
I can't think of a president who has been overburdened by a knowledge of economics.
My belief is that nothing that can be expressed by mathematics cannot be expressed by careful use of literary words.
Politicians like to tell people what they want to hear - and what they want to hear is what won't happen.
My family was well off but not rich. I spent the four years I was an undergraduate working on the beach. And it wasn't because I was lazy; it was because my freshman class would go to a hundred different employers and wouldn't get a nibble. That was a disequilibrium system. I realized that the ordinary old-fashioned Euclidean geometry didn't apply.
Economics has never been a science - and it is even less now than a few years ago.
Who will take responsibility for raising the next generation?
When you have a conflict, that means that there are truths that have to be addressed on each side of the conflict. And when you have a conflict, then it's an educational process to try to resolve the conflict. And to resolve that, you have to get people on both sides of the conflict involved so that they can dialogue.
If you can't read, it's going to be hard to realize dreams.
Because you don't learn anything unless you can find the patience to read. TV takes that away from you. It robs you from your mind.
I believe unconditionally in the ability of people to respond when they are told the truth. We need to be taught to study rather than believe, to inquire rather than to affirm.
I understand now my father really thought he was doing me good. Education means a lot to Palestinians. We’ve become some of the most educated people in the world through our diaspora. We’ve had to be. When you ain’t got land, your degree may be your only solid ground. May father felt (feels) that being a doctor would give me security. How can I explain that I’m not safe from anything if I don’t write?
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