The Myth of Common Sense: Why Uncommon Wisdom is More Effective

The phrase 'common sense' has long been a cornerstone in discussions about human reasoning and decision-making. However, upon closer examination, the concept appears not as straightforward as it might seem at first glance. In this article, we will explore why the myth of common sense is prevalent and how moving towards uncommon wisdom can lead to more effective outcomes.

Challenging the Misnomer of Common Sense

The term common sense typically evokes images of straightforward logical reasoning that seems obvious to most people. However, my initial impression of 'common' meaning widely shared or universally applicable is questionable. Calling something 'common' when it pertains to human perceptions and understanding is a significant challenge. After all, what is common among humans is notoriously subjective and can vary widely from one individual to another, not to mention cultural and regional differences.

The Slippery Slope of Assumptions

Experience often leads humans to form assumptions that they believe are universally true. These assumptions can be as fragile as a sandcastle at high tide. Let me illustrate this with an example: Suppose you and I are outdoors in the winter at the John F. Kennedy Airport in New York. We observe someone shivering in a T-shirt while trying to hail a taxi. Your immediate reaction might be that they have no common sense, suggesting it is illogical for them to be dressed that way.

However, a more nuanced perspective reveals that their attire might be a result of prior experience. Perhaps they were recently in Florida, where it was abnormally warm, and were unaware that December can be cold in New York. Another possibility is that they had never traveled that far north before and did not understand the weather conditions. Upon asking, it becomes clear that their lack of preparation was not due to a lack of common sense but rather a misunderstanding of local conditions. This anecdote highlights how our own experiences and local knowledge can sometimes be mistaken for universal common knowledge.

Common Sense: Subjective and Emotional

Common sense, as a concept, is inherently subjective. It is influenced by personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, and emotional states, all of which can color our perceptions. Most people are not entirely objective in their judgments, even when it comes to what appears to be straightforward and logical reasoning. Therefore, the idea that common sense forms a reliable and objective basis for decision-making is often flawed.

Embracing Uncommon Wisdom

Instead of relying solely on common sense, it is more beneficial to embrace uncommon wisdom. Uncommon wisdom involves utilizing all available resources, including emotional and instinctive insights alongside logical reasoning. Gray matter, the marvel of evolution, plays a crucial role in making sound decisions. We should strive to let our minds, shaped by millions of years of natural selection, guide our actions rather than blindly following the conventional wisdom.

Uncommon wisdom encourages a holistic approach to problem-solving, leveraging logical rationality, emotions, and instincts. When these elements work in harmony, the likelihood of making the right decisions significantly increases. For instance, consider the decision-making processes of ancient Homo sapiens. Those who survived and thrived had an ability to integrate different forms of intelligence, making better decisions for their survival and the survival of their community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, common sense, while a useful term in some contexts, is often not as universal or objective as its name suggests. Relying on common sense can sometimes lead to misunderstandings and poor decision-making. By embracing uncommon wisdom and utilizing the full spectrum of our cognitive capabilities, we can achieve better outcomes and develop a more effective approach to problem-solving and decision-making.