Meaning: Christopher Lasch, a prominent American historian and social critic, expressed a thought-provoking perspective on the concept of common sense in his quote: "The left has come to regard common sense - the traditional wisdom and folkways of the community - as an obstacle to progress and enlightenment." This statement reflects Lasch's belief that there is a growing tendency, particularly within left-leaning political and intellectual circles, to view common sense as a hindrance to societal advancement and enlightenment.

Lasch's assertion touches upon a fundamental tension that has persisted throughout history: the conflict between tradition and progress, between the wisdom of the past and the aspirations of the future. Common sense, as Lasch describes it, encompasses the accumulated knowledge, practical wisdom, and cultural traditions that have been passed down through generations within a community. It represents the collective insights and experiences of a society, providing a framework for understanding the world and navigating everyday life.

However, Lasch suggests that the left, which traditionally advocates for social change and progressive ideals, has increasingly viewed common sense as an impediment to their vision of progress and enlightenment. This perspective challenges the traditional notion that common sense is a valuable and essential aspect of societal cohesion and stability.

In exploring Lasch's quote, it is important to consider the historical context in which it was made. Lasch was known for his critiques of modernity and the impact of consumer culture on society. He was deeply concerned about the erosion of community and the loss of traditional values in the face of rapid technological and social change. From this vantage point, it becomes evident that Lasch's viewpoint on common sense reflects broader anxieties about the direction of contemporary culture and politics.

One interpretation of Lasch's statement is that the left's skepticism towards common sense may stem from a desire to challenge entrenched power structures and social norms that have historically perpetuated inequality and injustice. In this view, common sense is seen as a conservative force that reinforces existing hierarchies and impedes efforts to achieve a more equitable and just society.

On the other hand, critics of this perspective may argue that common sense serves as a vital anchor for communities, offering stability, continuity, and a sense of shared identity. They may contend that dismissing common sense in favor of radical change could lead to the erosion of essential cultural and social foundations, potentially causing disorientation and alienation within society.

Lasch's quote also raises important questions about the nature of progress and enlightenment. What does it mean to pursue progress, and how is it related to the wisdom embedded in common sense? Is it possible to reconcile the impulse for change with the preservation of valuable traditions and cultural heritage?

Ultimately, Christopher Lasch's quote serves as a starting point for a nuanced and ongoing conversation about the role of common sense in the context of social and political change. It prompts us to consider the complex interplay between tradition and innovation, and the ways in which different ideological perspectives approach the concept of progress. By engaging with Lasch's thought-provoking assertion, we are encouraged to critically examine our assumptions about the relationship between common sense, progress, and enlightenment in contemporary society.