Understanding Resistance to Common Sense

The Psychology Behind It

In an age characterised by an abundance of information, it often seems perplexing that certain individuals remain resistant to what we consider “common sense.” This phenomenon transcends simple disagreement and delves into the complex interplay of psychology, culture, and cognitive biases.

The Nature of Common Sense

Common sense refers to sound judgement based on a simple perception of the situation or facts. What is commonly accepted as true or logical can vary broadly between cultures and societies. As such, what is seen as common sense in one context may be viewed differently in another. This variability lays the groundwork for misunderstanding and resistance.

Cognitive Dissonance: A Barrier to Acceptance

One of the primary psychological factors contributing to resistance to common sense is cognitive dissonance. This phenomenon occurs when individuals hold two or more contradictory beliefs, values, or ideas. When presented with information that conflicts with their existing beliefs, people may experience psychological discomfort. To alleviate this discomfort, they may reject, rationalise, or distort the new information rather than confront their prior beliefs.

For instance, in matters of health, some individuals may display scepticism towards scientific recommendations, opting instead for alternative remedies that align with their preconceived notions. This dissonance can lead to a strong defence of their views, making it challenging to embrace commonly accepted facts.

Confirmation Bias: Seeking Echo Chambers

Another critical factor at play is confirmation bias, the tendency to search for, interpret, and remember information in a way that confirms one’s existing beliefs. In an information-saturated world, individuals often curate their sources to support their views, leading to an echo chamber effect where dissenting opinions are not just dismissed but actively rejected.

Social media platforms can exacerbate this issue. Algorithms tailor content to user preferences, reinforcing pre-existing beliefs instead of challenging them with diverse perspectives. This isolation from conflicting viewpoints can result in a profound resistance to common sense, as individuals become less exposed to evidence that contradicts their beliefs.

Identity and Group Membership

Resistance to common sense can also be rooted in identity politics. Individuals often align their beliefs with those of their social groups or communities, leading to a loyalty that prioritises group cohesion over objective reasoning. In highly polarised environments, admitting fault or embracing a view that runs counter to the group’s consensus can be perceived as a betrayal, causing individuals to double down on their beliefs.

This is particularly evident in political discourse, where party affiliation can shape one’s perception of issues. From climate change to vaccination, members of opposing parties may reject established scientific consensus if it contradicts party ideologies.

Education and Critical Thinking

Education plays a pivotal role in shaping our capacity to discern common sense. While formal education can promote critical thinking, it is often not enough to fully combat the ingrained beliefs fostered by culture and environment. Teaching individuals how to think critically about information, question sources, and weigh evidence are essential skills that need to be emphasised throughout one’s educational journey.

However, it’s equally important to recognise that knowledge doesn’t automatically equate to belief. Individuals educated in scientific principles may still resist common-sense conclusions if those conclusions challenge their emotional or ideological beliefs.

Strategies for Bridging the Gap

So, how can we begin to address the resistance to common sense? Open dialogue is key. Creating spaces for respectful conversations, where differing opinions can be expressed and rationalised, can promote understanding rather than hostility. Rather than attempting to “win” an argument, focussing on mutual respect and shared goals can help facilitate more productive discussions.

Moreover, fostering critical thinking from a young age is crucial. Encouraging curiosity, questioning, and a willingness to reassess one’s views can cultivate a mindset more receptive to change.

Resistance to common sense is a multi-faceted issue deeply rooted in cognitive psychology, social dynamics, and individual identity. By understanding the underlying motivations and biases, we can work towards fostering an environment where common sense prevails—not as an imposition of opinion but as a collective pursuit of truth. Promoting open conversations, critical thinking, and empathetic engagement may lead us closer to a society that embraces common sense in all its rich diversity.