We often hear the phrase "everyone knows that," but what does it really mean? Common knowledge refers to facts and ideas that are widely accepted and understood by most people, without needing special research or explanation.
Think of it as the kind of information you wouldn’t need to Google or footnote in an essay. For instance, we all know the Earth orbits the Sun, that water boils at 100°C, and that Shakespeare was a playwright. These are pieces of knowledge we encounter early and often, making them part of our collective understanding.
But here's the catch: what’s “common” to one group may not be to another. Cultural, regional, and educational differences mean that what one person assumes as obvious might be brand new to someone else.
That’s why it’s always worth thinking twice before assuming something is known to everyone. Whether you’re writing, teaching, or just having a conversation, knowing the boundaries of common knowledge can help you communicate more clearly—and more kindly.
So next time you find yourself saying, “That’s just common sense,” ask: is it really
#knowledge
We often hear the phrase "everyone knows that," but what does it really mean? Common knowledge refers to facts and ideas that are widely accepted and understood by most people, without needing special research or explanation.
Think of it as the kind of information you wouldn’t need to Google or footnote in an essay. For instance, we all know the Earth orbits the Sun, that water boils at 100°C, and that Shakespeare was a playwright. These are pieces of knowledge we encounter early and often, making them part of our collective understanding.
But here's the catch: what’s “common” to one group may not be to another. Cultural, regional, and educational differences mean that what one person assumes as obvious might be brand new to someone else.
That’s why it’s always worth thinking twice before assuming something is known to everyone. Whether you’re writing, teaching, or just having a conversation, knowing the boundaries of common knowledge can help you communicate more clearly—and more kindly.
So next time you find yourself saying, “That’s just common sense,” ask: is it really
#knowledge
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