Common Quote by Robert A. Heinlein
“Son, the phrase is self-contradictory; "sense" is never "common".”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Stranger in a Strange Land, 1961
Common sense is a paradox; what is “sense” may not be universally shared.
In simple terms: Sense is never common.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions about “common sense”.
Themes
paradox
language
philosophy
communication
subjectivity
Mood
thought‑provoking
critical
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- dialogue facilitation
- education curricula
- cross‑cultural training
Key Concepts
social norms
cultural differences
interpretation challenges
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you define “sense” in diverse groups?
- When does “common sense” become a barrier?
A Different Perspective
Assumptions can hinder understanding.
![“Neither Italian fascism nor German national "socialism" have anything in common with such a [Soviet socialistic] society, primarily because private ownership of factories, plants, lands, banks, means of transportation, etc., remain untouched there, and, therefore, capitalism in Germany and Italy…” quote by Joseph Stalin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/411/joseph-stalin-1734_capitalism_neither-italian-fascism-nor-german-natio_1430.jpg)
