word choice - Gerund Phrase as Subject

Is it acceptable to use a gerund phrase as the subject of a sentence? More generally, can a gerund phrase be used interchangeably with other nouns? For example:

Understanding history enhances one's judgment.

I feel it makes more sense to write:

An understanding of history enhances one's judgment.

Answer

It seems that virtually all nouns that are based on verbs and end in -ing are simply gerunds that have broken free. However, there can subtle differences.

When used as a straight noun, especially with an article, the gerunds-now-nouns tend to refer to the specific:

The acting was incredible. [This particular acting event was praiseworthy.]

When used in a classical gerund form, the phrase is more universal:

Acting is incredible. [The act of acting, in general, is transformative.]

While both forms are grammatically correct, and both sound fine, there may be subtle differences depending on the context. Or there may not. The offered examples appear equivalent.