Big picture Quote by David Katz
“I naturally gravitate toward the big picture which isn't necessarily advantageous when you go on to a career in research because successful researchers usually choose a pretty narrow channel. So having tunnel vision actually helps you stay where you are supposed to stay. The big picture in medical care was looking at the underlying causes of all of this pathology. I really wanted to do something about that and play a meaningful role in changing the trajectory of people's lives and their health and by changing their health, changing the quality of their lives.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview on Research Careers, 2020
Broad vision can be a hindrance in research; focusing narrowly allows deeper expertise and progress in a specific field.
In simple terms: Big picture thinking may hinder research; narrow focus helps.
Choose a focused niche for impact.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic labs
- clinical trials
- policy development
- health innovation
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What niche aligns with your strengths?
- How can you integrate broader context without losing focus?
Over‑specialization may limit interdisciplinary insight.