Much has been said about the propensity for engineers to reach dangerously beyond their areas of training. There seems to be a correlation between great technical understanding and a certain tunnel vision that prevents critical thought. I have spent my recent years working with surgeons and the like, and it seems the same holds true in this realm as well. I have often been fascinated by these connections between scientific prowess and irrational actions. Allow me to explore a few extreme examples.
Ted Kaczynski (the unabomber) is perhaps one of the most infamous domestic terrorists in North America - he was also a profoundly capable mathematician. Additionally, many have noted that often Jihadist groups are made up of high proportions of engineers and scientists (although academic and cultural sampling bias may contribute). Engineers and Physicians have both also been found to be more politically conservative than their peers - however I would be remiss to avoid mentioning the relationship these career paths hold to generational wealth and its inherent connection to contemporary conservativism.
This is not to say that all smart people who do silly things are going to send you a bomb in the mail. What I am saying, is that often really gifted people do really dumb shit. I am also saying that really smart people who know they are smart are highly likely to delve beyond WHERE they are smart with reckless abandon.
The idea of the polymath, a person of interdisciplinary expertise, is touted in academic circles as something to be held in high esteem and strived towards. In my experience, I find the "Jack of all trades, master of none" trope is far more often the reality that is reached. To be considered competent is driven by context and audience - but to truly understand a thing is another variable altogether.
Perhaps it is a demonstration of my foolish ego that I of all people write on this subject at all. I would argue, however, that to dabble in something as a hobby or interest is an acceptable practice - but to claim a capability to practice it for others without the necessary credentials is not.