Range
David Epstein
16 people recommended it in 5 threads, 2019–2023.
7 commenters pushed back on it — worth reading the threads.
What people on Hacker News said
For instance, Range, one of the books that Gates recommends, isn't specific to any occupation, but can inform one's general perspective on the hazards (or benefits) of taking a software job that is more specialized, and whether it's the best thing for your career in the long-term.
Range is a great book! I really enjoyed reading it, it is a worthwhile read which expands your line of thinking.
There is a book that might change your mind and it is actually on the list Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World" by David Epstein.
His thesis is that you have to know your environment and that most environments are too chaotic for just grinding out hours. A larger Range of knowledge/experience is likely a better strategy for many areas of life.
You will notice that the people that came up with solutions came from a total different discipline, while the people in that field were stuck
Reading more about areas outside of your own domain of expertise can only be a good thing as it introduces you to thoughts and concepts you otherwise wouldn't know about.
Where it comes up
- Good Books for a Lousy Year 2020 · 10 recommendations
- Ask HN: What is the best book you read in 2020? 2020 · 2 recommendations
- Ask HN: Best books you read in the past decade? 2019 · 2 recommendations
- Ask HN: Books you read in 2023 and recommend for 2024? 2023 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: What book changed your life? 2022 · 1 recommendation