Common sense is not so common.

The quote "Common sense is not so common" by Voltaire reflects his critique of society's tendency to overlook or misunderstand basic reasoning. Voltaire, a French Enlightenment philosopher, often questioned established norms and emphasized the importance of rational thinking. By stating that common sense is rare, he suggests that despite being widely valued and supposedly inherent in all people, it is not always as prevalent or accessible as one might expect. This speaks to the human tendency to overlook simple truths or basic logic in favor of more complex, often misguided, beliefs.

Voltaire’s philosophical works frequently tackled the theme of human ignorance and the failure of reason. He believed that many individuals, particularly in authoritarian societies, were more influenced by superstition, tradition, or authority than by sound reasoning. In this context, the quote serves as a reminder that what should be obvious or easily understood is, in fact, often ignored or misunderstood by many.

The origin of this quote is rooted in Voltaire's critique of society during the 18th century, particularly his criticism of dogma, religious orthodoxy, and intellectual stagnation. In an age where reason was emerging as a central force of intellectual life, Voltaire's statement underscores the irony that despite the intellectual advances of the time, common sense was still often lacking in everyday decision-making and societal structures.

Ultimately, the quote challenges us to reconsider our assumptions about what constitutes intelligence and wisdom. Voltaire’s remark suggests that rationality and critical thinking, which should be commonplace, are often scarce, and that true enlightenment involves cultivating the ability to recognize and apply common sense in our daily lives.