Common sense

Definition

Common sense refers to the basic ability to perceive, understand, and judge things that are shared by nearly all people. It is the collective reasoning that helps individuals navigate everyday life and make decisions based on practical understanding rather than complex theories. In various historical contexts, particularly during times of social and political upheaval, common sense has been invoked to advocate for rational thought and the pursuit of liberty, resonating deeply with the ideals of reason and democracy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Thomas Paine's pamphlet 'Common Sense,' published in 1776, played a crucial role in persuading American colonists to support independence from Britain.
2. Paine argued that monarchy was an illegitimate form of government and that the colonies should establish a democratic republic based on common sense principles.
3. The pamphlet was widely read and had a significant impact on public opinion, helping to unify colonists around the idea of independence.
4. Paine’s use of clear language and relatable examples made complex ideas accessible to a broad audience, exemplifying the power of common sense in communication.
5. Common sense as a concept helped challenge traditional authority, encouraging people to rely on their own reasoning rather than accepting established norms.

Review Questions

• How did Thomas Paine's use of common sense influence the American colonists' view on independence?
  • Thomas Paine's use of common sense in his pamphlet 'Common Sense' had a transformative effect on the American colonists by articulating their frustrations with British rule in a relatable way. By framing independence as a rational choice supported by logical arguments against monarchy, he galvanized support among those who may have been undecided. His ability to distill complex political ideas into accessible language resonated with many people, ultimately fostering a collective desire for freedom and self-governance.
• Analyze the role of common sense in shaping revolutionary thought during the Enlightenment period.
  • Common sense played a pivotal role in shaping revolutionary thought during the Enlightenment by encouraging individuals to question established authority and pursue rational discourse. Thinkers like Thomas Paine emphasized that everyday reasoning should guide political decision-making rather than blind adherence to tradition. This shift towards valuing individual judgment over accepted norms contributed to broader movements for democracy and human rights, ultimately leading to significant social changes during this period.
• Evaluate how the concept of common sense contributed to the development of democratic ideals in the United States.
  • The concept of common sense was instrumental in developing democratic ideals in the United States by promoting the idea that governance should be rooted in rationality and the collective will of the people. By challenging traditional forms of authority, such as monarchy, common sense empowered citizens to believe they had the capacity for self-governance. This emphasis on reasoned decision-making and public participation laid the groundwork for democratic principles that prioritized individual rights and civic responsibility, shaping the foundation of American democracy.

Related terms

Rationalism: A philosophical approach emphasizing reason as the primary source of knowledge, often contrasting with empiricism.

Enlightenment:

An intellectual movement in the 17th and 18th centuries that emphasized reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional doctrines.

Pamphlet: A small booklet or brochure containing information or arguments on a specific topic, often used to spread political ideas.