Multipotentiality is an educational and psychological term for the ability and preference of a person, particularly one of strong intellectual or artistic curiosity, to excel in two or more different fields, or for a person whose interests span multiple fields or areas rather than being concentrated in one; such a person has been called a multipotentialite, in contrast to a specialist, whose interests lie mostly within a single field.
Facts
Core ClaimMultipotentiality names the ability and preference of a person with strong intellectual or artistic curiosity to excel across two or more different fields at once, rather than concentrating ability and interest in a single specialist field. 1 FAQs
Is a multipotentialite the same as a polymath?
A multipotentialite has potential across several fields; a polymath has mastery in them.
No. The terms are often used interchangeably, but they are not identical. A multipotentialite is someone with potential in several fields because of diverse interests and attempts, and need not be an expert in any particular field. A polymath is distinguished by mastery and expertise in several fields. In that sense multipotentialites can be viewed as potential polymaths.
Sources
1. Wikipedia
Wikimedia FoundationMultipotentiality, Etymology section (origin)Quote, Multipotentiality, Etymology section (origin)
In 1972, R.H. Frederickson et al. defined a multipotentialed person as someone who, "when provided with appropriate environments, can select and develop a number of competencies to a high level".
Multipotentiality (Wikipedia)
Multipotentiality, lead section (core claim)Quote, Multipotentiality, lead section (core claim)
Multipotentiality is an educational and psychological term referring to the ability and preference of a person, particularly one of strong intellectual or artistic curiosity, to excel in two or more different fields.
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