Frank Lloyd Wright: 'There is nothing more uncommon than common sense.'

There is nothing more uncommon than common sense.

In the realm of intellect, a notion surfaces that challenges the foundation of practicality and rationality, inciting us to question the very essence of our everyday understanding. "There is nothing more uncommon than common sense," as famously stated by the American architect Frank Lloyd Wright, is a thought-provoking utterance that beckons us to delve deeper into the intricacies of human perception and knowledge. At first glance, this quote appears to champion the extraordinary and the exceptional, elevating unique perspectives above mundane conventional wisdom. However, upon closer examination, it becomes apparent that it is not dismissing common sense outright but emphasizing the rarity of its true application. To truly grasp the meaning of this quote, we must embark on a philosophical exploration that delves into the concept of collective consciousness and challenges the dichotomy between common sense and uncommon perception.Essentially, common sense refers to the general knowledge and practical wisdom that most people possess. It encompasses the ability to discern and act in a way that aligns with widely accepted norms and expectations. In many cases, common sense serves as a valuable guide, allowing us to navigate through the complexities of life with relative ease. However, Wright's quote sheds light on the observation that common sense is not as prevalent as one might assume. It suggests that the proactive utilization of common sense is, in fact, far from common.One way to comprehend this notion is to explore the philosophical concept of collective consciousness pioneered by the French sociologist Émile Durkheim. Collective consciousness refers to the shared beliefs, values, and ideas that exist within a society and that individuals adopt as their own. It is the product of social interaction and serves as a guiding force, shaping our thoughts and actions within the boundaries of cultural norms. In this context, it becomes apparent that common sense is deeply intertwined with collective consciousness - it is an embodiment of the knowledge and norms that are accepted by a particular social group.However, the very premise of Wright's quote challenges the notion of collective consciousness. By identifying common sense as uncommon, he implies that a majority of individuals do not actively engage in critical thinking or independent reasoning. Instead, people often align themselves with the collective consciousness, adhering to societal norms without questioning their validity or seeking alternative perspectives.To illuminate this contrast, consider the concept of uncommon sense - a term coined to describe extraordinary insights, unorthodox beliefs, or innovative ideas that defy common wisdom. Uncommon sense, in this sense, represents the intellectual courage to question the status quo and challenge preconceived notions. It encourages critical thinking and urges individuals to explore new possibilities beyond the constraints of common sense.While common sense and uncommon sense appear to be at odds with each other, they are not inherently contradictory. Rather, they exist on a spectrum, with common sense forming the foundation upon which uncommon sense can flourish. Common sense provides stability and order, enabling society to function cohesively, while uncommon sense represents the evolutionary force that propels society forward by challenging established norms and sparking innovation.By recognizing the scarcity of common sense, Frank Lloyd Wright's quote invites us to question our own reliance on collective consciousness. It compels us to consider whether we are merely following the well-trodden path of common sense or if we are willing to venture into uncharted territories of uncommon sense. In doing so, we embrace the potential for personal growth, intellectual development, and societal progress.Ultimately, the quote presents an opportunity for reflection. It serves as a reminder of the importance of critical thinking, independent reasoning, and intellectual curiosity. It urges us to cultivate uncommon sense, to question the prevailing wisdom, and to explore alternative perspectives. By doing so, we have the power to not only challenge existing norms but also contribute to the collective growth of our society. Only then can we break free from the limitations of common sense and unlock the vast potential of human imagination and creativity.