It's become common for people to justify opinions or decisions by claiming they are just "common sense." However, this phrase is often used to stifle thoughtful discourse and shut down alternate perspectives. As leaders aiming to make wise choices in a complex world, we must be wary of relying on simplistic common sense rationales.
The Risks of Invoking Common Sense
Appealing to common sense tends to demonstrate flawed critical thinking in several ways:
It discounts the need for nuanced analysis. Most modern challenges involve layers of technological, social, political complexity. Surface logic rarely suffices. We must be willing to research issues from many lenses.
It implies dissenters lack basic intelligence. Dismissing those who see things differently hinders exchange of ideas and accumulation of wisdom. Diverse insight propels understanding.
It conceals contradictions and hypocrisy. So-called "common sense" often crumbles under scrutiny. For instance, people may claim everyone knows governments can't manage healthcare efficiently while ignoring how well Medicare works.
It breeds arrogant close-mindedness. Once people believe they have all the answers, cognitive biases take over and actual learning stops. Confirmation bias renders leaders deaf to anything outside their worldview.
It justifies the status quo. Improving any system requires questioning existing norms and power structures. Common sense rationales defend upholding current conditions.
Cultivating Intellectual Humility
The world is complex, yet individual human brains are limited in perspective. As ethicist John Lachs noted, true wisdom requires acknowledging that we cannot see the whole picture nor have all the answers on our own.
Intellectually humble leaders therefore cultivate perpetual curiosity and avoid rigid certainty. Rather than defaulting to "common sense", they:
Question underlying assumptions and conventional thinking instead of blindly accepting them
Earnestly invite debate and challenge from diverse perspectives outside their bubbles
Actively listen to different views without judgment or defensiveness
Take time to deeply analyze root causes of issues, not just symptoms and superficial perspectives
Thoroughly consider potential pitfalls and unintended consequences before acting
View challenges as opportunities to learn something new and improve rather than reinforce the status quo
Beyond Either/Or Thinking
Many debates framed in terms of common sense are actually complex issues with multiple reasonable perspectives. Leaders who recognize reality's nuance are cautious about absolutist rhetoric.
For instance, pragmatic leaders acknowledge free market capitalism has benefits like spurring innovation, and flaws like exacerbating inequality. Truth incorporates paradox.
Seeking Inclusive Wisdom
True progress depends on often questioning the status quo, humbly hearing those most impacted by issues, and synthesizing the best collective thinking available. Blind allegiance to "common sense" limits potential. Pursuing truth requires nuance, inclusion and perpetual humility.
To explore leading with more inclusive wisdom, please don't hesitate to reach out. Seeking multiple lenses always brings complex realities into sharper focus. The path of lifelong learning never ends.