Beyond Common Sense: Unveiling the Pitfalls of a Flawed Narrative

 

All too often, I come across family online claiming something is "Common Sense". In my last job, one of the managers routinely claimed the expectations they had of other staff were "Common Sense". These scenarios always make me uneasy.

"Common sense" is a phrase so ingrained in our vocabulary, it feels almost instinctive. We rely on it for everyday decisions, for navigating social situations, and even for forming opinions on complex issues. But is "common sense" truly all it's cracked up to be? In a world increasingly driven by scientific advancements and intricate challenges, is it enough to simply rely on what feels intuitive?

The Myth of Universality: Common Sense as a Disguise for Ignorance

The term "common sense" implies a universally held understanding, a baseline of knowledge that everyone possesses. However, this very assumption reveals the first flaw in this narrative. Common sense is far from universal. It's shaped by our individual experiences, cultural backgrounds, and access to information. What might seem like common knowledge to one person could be entirely foreign to another. This lack of universality makes "common sense" a shaky foundation for tackling complex issues, especially those with scientific or social dimensions.

Refusal to Engage: Common Sense as a Barrier to Understanding

Perhaps the most concerning aspect of the "common sense" narrative is its potential to act as a barrier to understanding. When we rely solely on what feels intuitive, we bypass the crucial step of seeking out information and engaging with evidence. Complex issues like climate change, economic policies, or public health interventions require a deeper understanding than just "gut feeling". Common sense, in these cases, can become a convenient excuse to dismiss opposing viewpoints or scientific data that contradicts an already formed opinion.

The Dog Whistle of Discontent: Common Sense as a Tool for Division

The "common sense" narrative can be dangerously weaponised. Politicians and special interest groups often use it as a dog whistle, appealing to a sense of shared frustration with complex issues. This approach avoids tackling the root causes or proposing nuanced solutions. Instead, it pits "common sense" against "elitist knowledge," creating the "us vs. them" mentality found in American politics and Britain's European exit debates. It not only discourages constructive debate but also hinders progress on critical matters.

More Insidious than Disagreement: Common Sense as a Tool for Mainstreaming Extremism

While the use of "common sense" by extremist groups might seem obvious, the research described by George Newth and Alessio Scopelliti  highlights a more insidious trend. Extremist ideologies often rely on a veneer of "common sense" to appear more palatable to the mainstream. They frame their radical ideas as simply "what everyone knows," thereby disguising their underlying bigotry or harmful agendas. This can be particularly dangerous when used to normalise hate speech or justify discriminatory policies.

A Call for Critical Thinking: Moving Beyond the Limitations of Common Sense

So, what's the alternative? Does this mean we should discard all common sense entirely? Not necessarily. But it's crucial to recognise its limitations. In a world brimming with information, we must move beyond relying solely on intuition. We need to embrace critical thinking, actively seeking out reliable information, and engaging with diverse perspectives. Some ways of fostering a more informed approach include:

• Question your assumptions: Don't take your "gut feeling" as fact. Research the topic, explore different viewpoints, and see if your initial assumptions hold up.
• Seek out credible sources: With so much information readily available, it's vital to learn to distinguish reliable sources from mis- (and dis-) information. Look for scientific studies, reputable news outlets, and expert opinions. Be wary of confirmation bias and echo chambers.
• Embrace complexity: Real-world issues are rarely black and white. Look for nuanced solutions that take into account various factors and potential consequences. Recognise that "common sense" might not always capture the full picture.
• Engage in respectful dialogue: Discussions with individuals holding differing viewpoints can be enlightening. However, it's crucial to maintain a respectful and constructive atmosphere.

Conclusion: Unmasking the Common-Sense Charade

While "common sense" might seem like a harmless shortcut, it can lead us down a path of misinformation, division, and a lack of progress. By recognising its limitations and fostering critical thinking skills, we can move beyond this flawed narrative. Let's embrace the complexity of the world, question our assumptions, and engage with the wealth of information available to us.