Common Knowledge v University Degrees

[Caribeing]

Do you think it is better to have a wide general knowledge and common sense than be specific on one subject, I understand that people have to study certain topics for their chosen careers etc. A previous boss of mine had two degrees but no common sense whatsoever, we had to "carry" him through most of his tasks.This query was prompted by Eggheads tonight, a team of student teachers etc were the Eggheads opponents and they were quite embarrassing!

[China Doll]

I think having a degree is really just a way of showing an ability to learn... at least if it's not vocational anyway. Common knowledge I think is something you acquire overtime and after attendiing many a pub quiz.

Common sense however appears to be going out of fashion.

[winebuyer]

Your question presupposes that (1) having a wide general knowledge and common sense, and (2) having specific knowledge on one subject, are mutually exclusive.

The answer that you are hoping for is implicit from the question. Who, after all, would favour the option which did not include "common sense"?

You have given the example of your previous boss who had two degrees, but no common sense. Are you suggesting that all non graduates are endowed with enormous common sense?

And how would you characterize "Common Sense"? The criteria seems to be:

1. Person A thinks just like I do, therefore he has common sense.

2. Person Bis far better qualified and more knowledgeable than I am, but he does not blindly agree with me. Therefore he must have no common sense.

[winebuyer]

ps. What counts as "wide general knowledge"?

[Caribeing]

winebuyer: "wide general knowledge" A big person with a big brain!

[cazzz1975]

I much prefer to have good general knowledge and common sense than a degree in pottery (although I am very good at pottery)

I think common sense and wisdom does come with age and experience, the ability to remain open minded helps us get the most out of lifes lessons.

I do think that a degree does demonstrate a person's willingness to apply themselves successfully. It could be that people have higher expectations of a person with formal qualifications??