Meaning: The quote "Philosophy likes to keep common sense on the run" by Mason Cooley, a well-known aphorist and writer, captures the tension between philosophical inquiry and everyday practical wisdom. This quote reflects the idea that philosophy often challenges and questions common sense assumptions and beliefs, pushing us to think critically and deeply about the world around us.

Philosophy, as an academic discipline, involves the systematic study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language. It encourages individuals to examine and evaluate their beliefs, assumptions, and worldview, often leading to a reevaluation of what is considered "common sense."

Common sense, on the other hand, refers to the basic, practical wisdom that is widely accepted and relied upon in everyday life. It is the collection of beliefs and practices that are seen as self-evident and universally understood without the need for extensive reasoning or explanation. Common sense is often grounded in cultural norms, personal experience, and societal expectations.

The tension between philosophy and common sense arises from the fact that philosophical inquiry often challenges the apparent simplicity and self-evidence of common sense beliefs. This challenge can be unsettling, as it requires individuals to question and critically examine ideas that they may have taken for granted.

One of the key functions of philosophy is to push the boundaries of common sense, to question the assumptions that underpin our understanding of the world. This can be seen in the way that philosophical thinkers throughout history have questioned and critiqued widely held beliefs, leading to paradigm shifts in our understanding of reality.

For example, the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates famously questioned commonly held beliefs about virtue, justice, and the nature of knowledge, challenging his interlocutors to critically examine their assumptions. Similarly, in the modern era, philosophers such as René Descartes and Immanuel Kant have questioned common sense notions about the nature of reality, consciousness, and morality, leading to profound shifts in philosophical thought.

It is important to note that the tension between philosophy and common sense is not necessarily a conflict, but rather a productive and enriching dialogue. While philosophy may challenge common sense, it also provides a framework for critically evaluating and refining our understanding of the world.

In this sense, the quote by Mason Cooley captures the dynamic relationship between philosophy and common sense, highlighting the role of philosophical inquiry in challenging, refining, and enriching our everyday understanding of the world. It reminds us that while common sense may provide a practical starting point for navigating the world, philosophy encourages us to continually question and deepen our understanding of reality.