Proposed Definition of Polymathy and Polymathic Orientation
Polymathy is a multidimensional approach to learning and personal development that involves the pursuit, development, and application of knowledge characterized by three dimensions: breadth, depth, and integration. (1) Breadth refers to the diversity between the domains, areas, or subjects in which an individual pursues, develops, and applies knowledge. (2) Depth refers to the degree of profoundness, rigor, and precision in that pursuit. (3) Integration entails transcending traditional boundaries and divisions that separate knowledge, disciplines, and areas of human action, fostering the synthesis of ideas, the exploration of fundamental connections, and calling attention to gaps resulting from the current division of knowledge.
Polymathic Orientation (PO) is a disposition, inclination, or enduring direction of thought and interest that drives individuals to pursue, develop, and apply knowledge across multiple areas of human activity. This orientation is characterized by an individual's preference for engaging in activities and learning experiences that emphasize: (1) Breadth Orientation: preference for and valuing of engaging with diverse domains. (2) Depth Orientation: commitment to achieving profoundness, rigor, and precision. (3) Integration Orientation: predisposition to transcend traditional boundaries and divisions of knowledge through active engagement with the synthesis of ideas, exploration of fundamental connections, and calling attention to gaps resulting from the current division of knowledge.
See Michael Araki
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