Albert Einstein: 'Common sense is the collection of prejudices acquired by age eighteen.'

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

In his famous quote, Albert Einstein asserts that common sense is nothing more than a collection of prejudices that individuals acquire by the age of eighteen. At first glance, this quote may seem perplexing or even skeptical. How can something so widely regarded as a fundamental part of decision-making and problem-solving be described as mere prejudices? To truly comprehend Einstein's perspective, we need to delve deeper into his philosophy and explore the intricacies of common sense. Moreover, we will examine an unexpected philosophical concept - the notion of universal truth - to enhance our understanding of the quote and provoke thought on the nature of knowledge.To begin with, let's decipher what Einstein meant by "common sense." Common sense refers to a general consensus of knowledge or beliefs that society collectively accepts as rational and practical. It is the intuitive understanding we develop through our experiences and observations of the world around us. We often rely on common sense to make decisions and navigate daily life. However, Einstein's suggestion that it is merely a collection of prejudices can be interpreted as a reminder to approach common sense with caution. It urges us to question our assumptions and critically evaluate the beliefs that underpin our understanding of the world.In contrast to common sense, the concept of universal truth shines a spotlight on the search for absolute and objective knowledge. Universal truths are statements or principles that hold true regardless of individual perspectives or cultural differences. These truths transcend personal biases or prejudices and offer a foundational understanding of the world. While common sense is shaped by subjective experiences and societal influences, universal truth exists independently and remains constant throughout time.Einstein's quote invites us to contemplate the limitations of common sense and recognize its inherent subjectivity. The prejudices that Einstein alludes to are not necessarily negative or harmful. Instead, they are the product of our upbringing, cultural backgrounds, and personal experiences. These prejudices color our perception of reality, shaping the lenses through which we interpret and make sense of the world. Thus, the common sense we rely on can inadvertently limit our understanding, hindering our ability to embrace new perspectives or challenge long-held beliefs.By contrasting common sense with the concept of universal truths, we can uncover a philosophical tension that stimulates a broader exploration of knowledge and understanding. While common sense may serve as a practical compass in our day-to-day lives, it is crucial to acknowledge that it is not infallible. As individuals, we must strive to expand our understanding beyond the confines of common sense and actively seek out universal truths that transcend personal biases.Moreover, Einstein's quote compels us to reflect on the role of education in mitigating the limitations of common sense. By fostering a commitment to critical thinking and intellectual curiosity, education can provide individuals with tools to question the prejudices ingrained within common sense. Through exposure to new ideas, diverse perspectives, and empirical evidence, education empowers individuals to challenge assumptions, reassess their beliefs, and broaden their intellectual horizons.In conclusion, Einstein's quote, 'Common sense is the collection of prejudices acquired by age eighteen,' challenges us to reevaluate the role of common sense in our understanding of the world. By juxtaposing common sense with the concept of universal truths, we are prompted to question the limitations of our subjective experiences and embrace a broader, more objective perspective. Ultimately, this exploration reminds us of the importance of critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and lifelong learning in our quest for knowledge and understanding.