The issues involving the role and impact of specialists and generalists in society are critically examined in this paper. Currently held views on specialization are analyzed and challenged. Perspectives on this dilemma are developed in the following areas: (1) limitations of experts (casts doubt on the assumption that ordinary citizens are incompetent by citing historical cases of individuals who altered the dogma of experts); (2) new technical means--innovation and invention (provides examples of inventions that occurred from those outside the recognized establishment especially in the aviation and computer fields); and (3) leadership and governance (reviews accounts of how various institutions and organizations have accommodated change brought about by outside influences). Recommendations include establishment of a liberal education at all levels and a re-examination of the extensive emphasis on vocational and professional education and learning. (ML)