BUILDING COMMON SENSE: Capturing Common Ground in a Divided World

By: Craig Mitchell, President, Robroy Industries Enclosures Division

            “Common sense is not so common,” observed Voltaire in the 18th century, and his words seem just as relevant today—if not more so.

            As we navigate a world that feels increasingly polarized, the idea of “common sense” can feel elusive. 

            Is it something innate, or is it learned? 

            Instead of getting frustrated about its rarity, we should explore a better question:

            “How can we create common sense?”

            I believe the key lies in first capturing common ground—a shared understanding and framework that can become the foundation for common sense.

            What is common sense, really?

            Before we can build it, we need to define it. 

            Common sense is often described as sound judgment derived from simple perceptions of the situation or facts. But even this definition implies some shared understanding of what’s “sound” or “simple.” Without a common foundation, our “sense” can diverge dramatically.

            Consider this: 

            Common sense isn’t just what we know, it’s what we collectively agree on as reasonable. It’s about balance, practicality, and empathy. It requires both critical thinking and emotional intelligence, rooted in a shared sense of reality.

            Why is common sense uncommon?

            In a world filled with diverse perspectives, competing priorities, and an endless stream of information, it’s no wonder that what seems obvious to one person may not to another. Social media amplifies biases, sensationalism clouds clarity, and trust in shared facts erodes.

            But there’s good news: common sense can be cultivated. It’s not a fixed trait; it’s a skill we can build.

Step 1: Start with Common Ground

            “Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect,” Mark Twain advised. 

            Yet, reflection alone isn’t enough—we need dialogue to find common ground.

            Common ground doesn’t mean agreement on everything; it means finding starting points where our values or goals overlap. For example:

            • In workplaces, it might be a shared desire for efficiency or safety.

            • In communities, it might be a commitment to fairness or mutual respect.

            • In personal relationships, it might be a shared love or responsibility.

            Finding this overlap requires curiosity and humility—the willingness to ask questions and truly listen.

Step 2: Learn Critical Thinking

            To build common sense, we must teach and practice critical thinking. This includes:

            • Evaluating information for accuracy and bias.

            • Recognizing logical fallacies and cognitive biases.

            • Seeking multiple perspectives before forming opinions.

            Critical thinking empowers us to navigate complex issues with clarity.

Step 3: Foster Empathy and Emotional Intelligence

            Empathy is essential for common sense because it bridges the gap between facts and human experience. 

            As Maya Angelou famously said: “I think we all have empathy. We may not have enough courage to display it.”

            Displaying empathy means considering how decisions and actions affect others. Emotional intelligence—understanding and managing emotions—further strengthens this connection.

Step 4: Commit to Lifelong Learning

            The world evolves, and so must our understanding. Common sense requires a willingness to adapt, update, and refine our beliefs. When we commit to lifelong learning, we remain open to new insights that shape better judgment.

            The takeaway?

            While common sense may not be common, it is attainable.

            By focusing on capturing common ground, cultivating critical thinking, fostering empathy, and embracing lifelong learning, we can build it together.

            As Albert Einstein wisely noted: “Common sense is the collection of prejudices acquired by age eighteen.” Let’s challenge that notion and redefine common sense—not as something we inherit, but as something we create through shared effort.

            In a divided world, the path to common sense begins with each of us. 

            Are you ready to begin?