Exploring the Difference Between Logic and Common Sense

Logic and common sense are related yet distinct concepts that play crucial roles in our daily reasoning processes. While both serve to guide our judgments and decisions, they do so through fundamentally different approaches. This article aims to elucidate the differences and similarities between these two domains of reasoning.

Logic: The Formal System of Reasoning

Definition: Logic is a formal system of reasoning that follows specific rules and principles. It involves the use of structured arguments, premises, and conclusions to arrive at valid inferences.

Objective: Logic is objective and relies on established rules of inference. Formal: It often involves symbolic representation, such as propositional or predicate logic. Rigorous: Logical reasoning must adhere to formal proofs and structures to avoid fallacies.

Common Sense: Everyday Practical Reasoning

Definition: Common sense refers to practical, everyday reasoning that is based on experience, intuition, and general understanding of the world.

Subjective: Common sense can vary between cultures, communities, and individuals. Informal: It is often based on social norms, traditions, and personal experiences rather than formal training. Pragmatic: Common sense is typically concerned with what is practical and reasonable in everyday situations.

Key Differences: Basis of Reasoning, Application, and Universality

Basis of Reasoning: Logic: Relies on formal rules and structured reasoning. Common Sense: Based on intuition and practical experience. Application: Logic: Used in mathematics, philosophy, and formal argumentation. Common Sense: Applied in daily decision-making and social interactions. Universality: Logic: Logical principles are universal and consistent regardless of context. Common Sense: Varies widely among different people and cultures.

Logic as Intelligent Guessing: Extrapolation

Logic involves deducing what is true for a large set of instances from the truth of a particular instance. It is the process of extrapolating from specific cases to more general ones based on rigorous logical principles. For example, if a statement holds true for a n number of cases, logic suggests it might be true for more cases, but it must be proven through formal methods.

Common Sense: Application of Practical Knowledge

Common sense is more about applying one's knowledge based on real experiences. It is grounded in scrupulous observation of what is happening in and around us. Common sense often involves making pragmatic decisions based on what has worked in the past or what is typical in a given situation. This type of reasoning is context-dependent and heavily influenced by personal and cultural experiences.

Conclusion

While both logic and common sense are essential for reasoning, they serve different purposes and operate under different principles. Logic provides a structured and formal approach to reasoning, ensuring that conclusions are valid and supported by rigorous proofs. In contrast, common sense is more intuitive and practical, drawing on personal and cultural experiences to make decisions in everyday situations. Both are valuable, but they approach problems from different angles, each with its own strengths.