As knowledge in science and technology advances,
specialization and compartmentalization become necessary. Each major branch
of science has dozens of sub-branches, and as knowledge develops fast, each
branch becomes distinct and comprehensive. While specialization goes for
efficiency and rapid growth, it also has its dangers.
One of the dangers of specialization is that technologists
and scientists tend to know more and more about their own specialist
subjects and less and less about anybody else's. When difficulties arise,
one has to hunt for an expert. If he is not available, the whole unit stops
functioning. This leads to many social problems, sometimes to willful
obstruction of work and the consequent suffering as the technologists are in
a bargaining position.
Moreover, specialization may lead to problems in the field
of production. More technologists mean more production. However, unless
there is a market to absorb all that is produced, the vicious circle of
economic crisis may come. With restricted or preferred market, this
difficulty becomes unavoidable and may, in extreme cases, spark a war.
Another danger of specialization is that none of the
specialists will be competent to deal with the subject as a whole. For
example, in a motor workshop, there are several specialists connected with
the car. There may be an expert in engine, another in the electric circuit,
a third in gears. While each one may be competent in his own field, none of
them will be competent to deal with the motor car as a whole. This may
result in the production of products that are not fully compatible or
functional as a whole.
In conclusion, while specialization goes for efficiency and
rapid growth, it is not an unalloyed blessing. It has its dangers, including
difficulties in finding experts and dealing with the subject as a whole, as
well as problems in the field of production. These dangers should be
considered and addressed in order to maximize the benefits of specialization
while minimizing its negative effects.
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