Meaning: The quote "Our time is so specialised that we have people who know more and more or less and less" by Alvar is a thought-provoking commentary on the increasing specialization and compartmentalization of knowledge in the contemporary world. At its core, the quote suggests that as our society becomes more specialized, individuals may possess deep expertise in narrow areas, but lack a broad understanding of the world around them. This phenomenon has implications for education, professional development, and the way we interact with and understand the world.

In today's society, there is an emphasis on acquiring specialized knowledge and skills in order to succeed in various professions and industries. This has led to a proliferation of specialized fields and subfields within disciplines such as medicine, technology, and the sciences. While this specialization has undoubtedly contributed to advancements in these areas, it has also resulted in a narrowing of focus for individuals, potentially limiting their ability to see the bigger picture.

The quote's assertion that "we have people who know more and more or less and less" reflects the idea that as individuals acquire deeper knowledge within their specialized domains, their overall understanding of the world beyond those domains may diminish. This can lead to a lack of interdisciplinary thinking and a fragmented understanding of complex issues that require a holistic perspective. In fields such as medicine, for example, specialists may excel in their specific areas of expertise but struggle to address the broader health implications that extend beyond their narrow focus.

Furthermore, the quote highlights the potential consequences of this specialization on society as a whole. As individuals become more specialized in their respective fields, there is a risk of losing the ability to communicate effectively across disciplines and to tackle multifaceted challenges that require collaboration and a comprehensive understanding of different perspectives. This can hinder innovation and problem-solving on a larger scale, as breakthroughs often arise at the intersection of diverse areas of knowledge.

In the realm of education, the quote raises questions about the balance between specialization and generalization in curricula. While specialized knowledge is crucial for advancing specific fields, there is also a need for individuals to develop a broad understanding of the world in order to be well-rounded and adaptable. As such, educational institutions may need to reconsider their emphasis on specialization and explore ways to foster interdisciplinary thinking and a broader base of knowledge among students.

Moreover, the quote's implications extend to the value of generalists in a world that increasingly values specialists. Generalists, who have a broad understanding of multiple fields, can play a crucial role in bridging gaps between specialized knowledge areas and promoting cross-disciplinary collaboration. Their ability to see connections between different domains and to think critically across disciplines is essential for addressing complex challenges and driving innovation.

In conclusion, Alvar's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the potential drawbacks of excessive specialization in our society. While specialization has its merits, it is essential to recognize the importance of maintaining a broader perspective and fostering interdisciplinary thinking. By doing so, we can strive to ensure that our knowledge continues to enrich our understanding of the world and contribute to holistic solutions for the complex issues we face.