Meaning: The quote "My idea of an educated person is one who can converse on one subject for more than two minutes" by Robert Millikan speaks to the depth of knowledge and the ability to engage in meaningful conversation on a particular topic. Robert Millikan was an American experimental physicist who won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1923 for his measurement of the elementary electronic charge and for his work on the photoelectric effect. As a physicist, Millikan understood the value of expertise and the ability to communicate effectively about a subject.

The quote suggests that being educated is not just about having a surface-level understanding of various topics, but rather about having a deeper knowledge and the capacity to engage in a sustained and meaningful discussion about a specific subject. It emphasizes the importance of depth of knowledge and the ability to articulate and convey that knowledge to others.

In today's fast-paced world, where information is readily accessible and attention spans are often short, the quote by Millikan encourages a reevaluation of what it means to be educated. It challenges the notion that having a general understanding of many topics is sufficient and instead emphasizes the value of being able to delve deeply into a subject and sustain a thoughtful conversation about it.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the importance of communication skills in education. The ability to converse on a topic for more than two minutes requires not only knowledge but also the capacity to express ideas clearly and coherently. It implies that an educated person should possess the ability to engage in meaningful dialogue, share insights, and convey complex concepts in a compelling manner.

From an academic perspective, the quote aligns with the idea of expertise and specialization. In various fields of study, the depth of knowledge and the ability to engage in sustained discourse are highly valued. Whether in the sciences, humanities, or professional disciplines, being able to converse at length about a specific subject demonstrates a level of mastery and understanding that goes beyond mere familiarity.

Moreover, the quote encourages a shift in the way education is approached. Instead of simply acquiring a broad range of information, it suggests that the focus should be on developing a profound understanding of particular subjects. This aligns with the concept of "deep learning," which emphasizes critical thinking, analysis, and the ability to apply knowledge in meaningful ways.

In the context of intellectual discourse, the quote by Robert Millikan advocates for a culture of thoughtful engagement and meaningful exchange of ideas. It highlights the value of in-depth understanding and the ability to sustain a conversation that delves into the nuances and complexities of a topic. This aligns with the notion of intellectual curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake.

Overall, Robert Millikan's quote challenges conventional notions of what it means to be educated and emphasizes the importance of depth of knowledge, communication skills, and the ability to engage in sustained conversation on a specific subject. It serves as a reminder that true education involves more than just a superficial understanding of various topics, but rather a profound immersion in a subject that enables meaningful discourse and thoughtful engagement.