What is generalism?

Answer

Generalism is a term with varied meanings, depending on the context. Most commonly understood, a generalist is someone who possesses a broad range of skills, as opposed to a narrow, refined expertise. In ethics, however, a generalist refers to someone who believes that universal moral principles apply in all situations. This type of generalism is essentially the same as a belief in objective morality.

Regarding skills and abilities, a generalist is reasonably competent in many different areas, but he or she may not be a true expert in any one field. In medicine, “general practitioners” are qualified to diagnose and treat most conditions. However, these same generalists refer patients to specialists when the situation requires more advanced knowledge. The specialist might be a world-class expert in his or her field but, unlike the generalist, is not well-suited to treat a wide range of conditions.

Spiritually, generalism is often required of church leaders. Pastors will find themselves presented with the need to both teach and rebuke, “holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers” (Titus 1:9), to comfort, “Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do” (1 Thessalonians 5:11), and to discern, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). Pastors and elders are often pressed into service as counselors, mediators, teachers, mentors, janitors, plumbers, cooks, and nurses!

Apart from pastors, manyOther Christians may find themselves in the position of a “spiritual generalist.” Not every believer possesses a single, dominant, extraordinary skill that surpasses all others. Most believers who desire to serve God will discover themselves engaged, to varying extents, in diverse forms of service at different times. This does not invalidate the concept of spiritual gifts. Believers who sense a strong calling to a specific field may opt to specialize in it. On the other hand, other Christians can effectively serve God as generalists, addressing needs as they emerge.

In ethics, generalism presents a contrasting viewpoint to particularism. Ethical particularism dismisses the idea of objective moral values, asserting instead that moral choices must be made based on the unfolding of each unique situation. Conversely, an ethical generalist is someone who upholds the belief that there are universal moral laws applicable in all circumstances. Ethical generalism aligns more closely with the Bible, which clearly delineates the distinction between good and evil (Isaiah 55:9;Genesis 2:17;Deuteronomy 30:15). Scripture does not eliminate the necessity for sound judgment (John 7:24;Romans 2:12) but rather aims to apply universal principles appropriately in any given circumstance.