Meaning: The quote "Common sense is perhaps the most equally divided, but surely the most underemployed, talent in the world" by Christiane Collage highlights the undervalued nature of common sense in the modern world. Common sense refers to the practical understanding and judgment that is based on simple perception of the situation or facts. It is often associated with the ability to make sound and rational decisions, without the need for specialized knowledge or training. However, despite its fundamental importance, common sense is often overlooked or disregarded in favor of more complex or technical forms of intelligence.

In the context of this quote, the phrase "equally divided" suggests that common sense is a trait that is universally shared among people. Unlike other forms of intelligence which can vary greatly from person to person, common sense is seen as a quality that is inherent in all individuals. This idea is supported by the notion that common sense is based on simple perception and understanding, rather than on specialized knowledge or expertise. As a result, it is seen as a talent that is equally accessible to all.

However, despite being universally present, the quote also emphasizes that common sense is "underemployed". This implies that people often fail to make full use of their common sense in their decision-making and problem-solving processes. Instead, they may rely on complex theories, technical expertise, or other forms of intelligence, neglecting the simple and practical wisdom that common sense can offer.

The quote's author, Christiane Collage, suggests that if people were to tap into their common sense more effectively, they could potentially address many of the world's problems and challenges more efficiently. This highlights the potential power and value of common sense in guiding individual and collective actions. It implies that common sense has the capacity to offer practical solutions to complex issues, precisely because it is grounded in simple, intuitive understanding.

In today's society, the value of common sense is sometimes overshadowed by the emphasis on academic and technical expertise. This can be seen in various fields such as politics, business, and education, where decision-making processes often prioritize specialized knowledge and formal qualifications over practical wisdom and intuition. However, the quote serves as a reminder that common sense is an essential and valuable form of intelligence that should not be underestimated or underutilized.

In conclusion, Christiane Collage's quote serves as a thought-provoking reflection on the underappreciated nature of common sense. It emphasizes the universal presence of common sense among individuals, while highlighting the need to tap into this talent more effectively. By recognizing the value of common sense and incorporating it into decision-making processes, individuals and society as a whole can potentially benefit from its practical and intuitive wisdom.