<Author>Aaron</Author>
<Topic></Topic>
<Nationality>USA</Nationality>
Is it better to have a little knowledge of everything, or a lot of knowledge about one thing? Those who favor the latter would advise reading selectively about topics directly related to one's interest or career field, while those who favor the former would suggest reading a wide variety of works to become "well-rounded. "
Selective reading is more practical, considering all people must improve work skills in very limited time frames. As Francis Bacon said, "knowledge is power," and the more one reads about one's vocation, the more competent one will be. However, this approach does little to promote social development.
While extensive reading does not have the vocational value of selective reading, it does broaden horizons and create good "cocktail party" conversational ability. This can translate into work skills, in terms of helping build good working relationships through personality. Mostly, however, it is for personal enjoyment.
Ideally, a middle path between selective and intensive reading should be taken. This allows readers to obtain the benefits of both methods, without blandly over-specializing or aimlessly drifting about. Life is about work and pleasure, and reading should not be an exception.