Action Quote by John Desmond Bernal
![“The problem [of specialization] is essentially that of communications to an army in action. After a rapid advance communications become disorganized, and there is a temporary halting until they are again in working order.” quote by John Desmond Bernal](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/29d/john-desmond-bernal-14871_action_the-problem-of-specialization-is-essenti_695877.jpg)
“The problem [of specialization] is essentially that of communications to an army in action. After a rapid advance communications become disorganized, and there is a temporary halting until they are again in working order.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Social Function of Science, John Desmond Bernal, 1939
Specialized units in fast‑moving operations lose coherent communication, causing temporary pauses until order is restored.
In simple terms: Specialization can disrupt communication in rapid actions.
Key Takeaway
Maintain clear communication channels during rapid change.
Themes
specialization
communication
military
organization
efficiency
Mood
analytical
pragmatic
technical
Type
theoretical
instructional
When to use this quote
- military campaigns
- large projects
- emergency response
- team sports
Key Concepts
systems theory
information flow
coordination
logistics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can teams balance expertise with effective communication?
- What structures prevent communication breakdowns?
A Different Perspective
Over‑specialization can reduce flexibility and adaptability.
![“[In eighteenth-century Britain] engineers for the most began as simple workmen, skilful and ambitious but usually illiterate and self-taught. They were either millwrights like Bramah, mechanics like Murdoch and George Stephenson, or smiths like Newcomen and Maudslay.” quote by John Desmond Bernal](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c15/john-desmond-bernal-14871_ambitious_in-eighteenth-century-britain-engineers_929710.jpg)
