Introduction: The Paradox of Science and Common Sense

Common sense philosophy has a venerable tradition, tracing back all the way to Aristotle. But it is only since the 18th century that philosophers began to self-identify as common sense philosophers. This introduction provides a somewhat rough sketch of what common sense is supposed to be. It considers what common sense philosophy amounts to. It examines a paradox that takes center stage in the book. The chapter spells out ways in which science can potentially debunk common sense. It also explains why this issue matters and then considers the alleged tensions between science and common sense in more detail for each of the book's chapters.