Scientific Perspectives on Common Sense

Understanding the Concept

Common sense is a multifaceted construct in psychology and cognitive science, referring to the ability to make sound judgments and decisions based on practical knowledge, experiential learning, and everyday experiences. It encompasses cognitive processes that enable individuals to understand and navigate complex real-world situations effectively, utilizing intuitive reasoning, contextual awareness, adaptive problem-solving skills, and the application of tacit knowledge.

Competencies for Assessing Common Sense

Assessing common sense involves evaluating key competencies that enable practical decision-making, adaptability, and effective social interaction. Below are the core competencies supported by research:

  • Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving:

    Measures an individual's capacity to assess situations, analyze information, and make practical decisions.

    References: IMST emphasizes critical thinking as essential for effective problem-solving in real-world contexts; Toggl Hire identifies it as a driver for team productivity and success.

  • Adaptability:

    Assesses flexibility in adjusting behaviors and strategies based on changing environments.

    References: Kaufman and Ackerman highlight adaptability as distinguishing practical intelligence from IQ; SpringerLink emphasizes its role in managing situational variables.

  • Risk Management and Preventive Action:

    Involves recognizing potential risks and taking preventive measures.

    References: CIPD describes risk management as key to preventing errors and optimizing resources; Toggl Hire highlights its importance in proactive issue mitigation.

  • Social Awareness and Empathy:

    Focuses on understanding social dynamics and showing empathy.

    References: Talentus underscores social awareness for fostering team cohesion; SpringerLink notes empathy's role in interpreting social cues.

  • Communication and Persuasion:

    Measures the ability to clearly convey ideas and persuade others.

    References: Toggl Hire identifies communication as essential for team-based decision-making.

  • Resilience:

    Assesses the ability to remain effective under pressure.

    References: Educational Psychology highlights resilience as vital for performance under stress; Toggl Hire emphasizes its role in continuous improvement.

  • Realistic Goal-Setting and Decision-Making:

    Measures the ability to set achievable goals and make decisions based on available resources.

    References: The Critical Thinking Core Competency Report ties realistic goal-setting to effective resource management; Toggl Hire considers it a core marker of practical judgment.

Overview: Common Sense as a Key to Success

Research and practical insights emphasize that common sense—characterized by practical decision-making, adaptability, and critical thinking—plays a crucial role in personal and professional success. Unlike IQ, which measures analytical abilities, or EQ, which assesses emotional awareness, common sense helps individuals navigate real-world situations effectively.

In work environments, common sense is linked to cultural fit, reduced turnover, error prevention, and improved team dynamics. Practical intelligence, or the ability to make sound judgments based on situational awareness, also enhances one’s ability to make decisions that align with organizational goals and promote overall workplace harmony.

Key Contributions to Our Understanding

  • Robert J. Sternberg (1985, 1986)
    Books: Beyond IQ: A Triarchic Theory of Human Intelligence and Practical Intelligence...
    Insight: Sternberg highlights practical intelligence as a crucial aspect of human ability, focusing on how individuals adapt to, shape, and select environments through real-world problem-solving—closely tied to common sense.
  • Gerd Gigerenzer & Wolfgang Gaissmaier (2011)
    Paper: “Heuristic Decision Making” Annual Review of Psychology.
    Insight: Their research explains heuristics—mental shortcuts that allow for quick, effective decisions in complex scenarios, a foundational aspect of common sense.
  • Daniel Kahneman (2011)
    Book: Thinking, Fast and Slow.
    Insight: Kahneman introduces System 1 thinking, characterized by fast, intuitive judgments based on experience, which aligns closely with the essence of common sense.
  • Jonathan Baron (2008)
    Book: Thinking and Deciding (4th ed.).
    Insight: Baron explores practical reasoning and decision-making, shedding light on how people rely on common sense to navigate everyday challenges.
  • Michael Polanyi (1966)
    Book: The Tacit Dimension.
    Insight: Polanyi’s concept of tacit knowledge—implicit understanding gained through experience—underscores the role of common sense in practical decision-making.

Notable Studies and Applications

  • Scott Barry Kaufman on Practical Intelligence and Common Sense

    Content: Kaufman explores how common sense, or practical intelligence, is vital for success across various life domains. He suggests that common sense allows individuals to adapt to unpredictable scenarios effectively, which is critical in workplaces where analytical skills alone might not suffice.

    Summary: His research bridges the gap between traditional intelligence measures (like IQ) and practical decision-making skills valued in high-stakes environments.

    Reference: Kaufman, S.B. Nonsense, Common Sense, and Science of Expert Performance.

  • Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD)

    Content: CIPD's research integrates evidence from behavioral science, showing how common sense predicts employee fit, productivity, and retention better than IQ or technical skills.

    Summary: Employees with common sense adapt to evolving situations, contributing to reduced turnover, better teamwork, and organizational success.

    Reference: A Head for Hiring: The Behavioral Science of Recruitment and Selection.

  • Talentus on Cultural Fit and Common Sense

    Content: Talentus emphasizes that common sense aligns employees' values with those of the organization, fostering team cohesion and productivity.

    Summary: This connection promotes adaptability, reduced turnover, and innovation in the workplace.

    Reference: Leal, A. Embracing Success: The Crucial Role of Cultural Fit in Hiring.

  • A Conscious Rethink

    Content: Highlights behaviors like risk awareness and critical thinking as traits of common sense that enhance decision-making.

    Summary: These behaviors foster personal growth and professional effectiveness.

    Reference: Common Sense is Built Through These 13 Behaviors.

  • InterviewPrep

    Content: Discusses how recruiters assess common sense through practical interview questions.

    Summary: Candidates demonstrating common sense are better at handling ambiguity and preventing organizational errors.

    Reference: Top 20 Common Sense Interview Questions & Answers.

Philosophical and Literary Definitions

Thomas Paine (1776)Common Sense

“Common sense is the simple ability to perceive, understand, and judge things shared by (common to) nearly all people without the need for debate or specialized knowledge.”

Albert EinsteinAttributed quotes & biographies

“Common sense is the collection of prejudices acquired by age eighteen.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson (1870)Society and Solitude

“Common sense is genius dressed in its working clothes.”

Integrated Definition of Common Sense

Common sense is the inherent ability to make sound judgments and effective decisions rooted in practical knowledge and everyday experiences. It combines intuitive understanding, experiential wisdom, and adaptive reasoning to navigate daily life efficiently. This capacity enables individuals to perceive situations realistically, understand social norms, and respond appropriately without the need for specialized expertise or extensive deliberation.