Steven Pinker, a prominent cognitive psychologist and author, delves into the intricate role of common knowledge in shaping individual behavior and societal norms in his latest book, When Everyone Knows That Everyone Knows. Pinker explores how shared beliefs, often unspoken yet widely understood, influence human interactions and societal structures.
Understanding Common Knowledge
Common knowledge is not simply a collection of established facts. Rather, it encompasses beliefs that people collectively acknowledge, regardless of their truth. For instance, the classic tale of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Emperor’s New Clothes illustrates this concept. When a child points out the emperor’s nakedness, he reveals what everyone else already knows but is hesitant to admit. This moment highlights the power of common knowledge in challenging authority and maintaining social harmony.
Pinker asserts that common knowledge plays a crucial role in facilitating cooperation among individuals. It allows people to coordinate actions effectively, leading to mutually beneficial outcomes. He notes that life presents numerous opportunities for collaboration, from scheduling meetings to sharing responsibilities in group projects.
Yet, Pinker warns that coordination can falter if individuals lack a shared understanding. Miscommunication and conflicting priorities can derail collective efforts, underscoring the importance of common knowledge in maintaining social order.
Examples and Implications of Common Knowledge
Pinker provides numerous examples to illustrate both the benefits and pitfalls of common knowledge. In traffic situations, for instance, pedestrians often rely on the common understanding that vehicles will stop at red lights. However, this assumption can lead to uncertainty. In some cases, drivers and pedestrians must establish eye contact and nonverbal cues to confirm their intentions, revealing the fragile nature of this common knowledge.
Another example involves public smoking bans, which have transformed social behavior. While laws against smoking in public spaces may not always be enforced, the presence of “NO SMOKING” signs empowers non-smokers to assert their preferences, contributing to improved public health.
Pinker also addresses the darker side of common knowledge, particularly in the context of bank runs and authoritarian regimes. A bank can collapse if too many customers attempt to withdraw their funds simultaneously, driven by the common knowledge that banks do not keep all deposits on hand. Similarly, oppressive governments often suppress common knowledge to maintain control, preventing citizens from recognizing their collective power.
Controversially, Pinker discusses the phenomenon of cancel culture, highlighting how certain topics have become taboo in academic settings. Questions around gender differences, historical injustices, and colonialism often provoke strong reactions. As Pinker notes, individuals may refrain from voicing dissenting opinions to maintain social cohesion, raising concerns about the role of universities in fostering open discourse.
The author concludes that while revealing truths is generally desirable, the complexities of common knowledge necessitate a balance between honesty and social harmony. Pinker quotes philosopher Blaise Pascal, who famously stated, “If all men knew what others say of them, there would not be four friends in the world.” This sentiment encapsulates the delicate interplay between knowledge and social dynamics.
Pinker’s work challenges readers to reflect on the pervasive nature of common knowledge and its multifaceted impact on society. As individuals navigate the complexities of shared beliefs, they must grapple with the consequences of both acknowledging and remaining silent about the truths that shape their lives.
In summary, When Everyone Knows That Everyone Knows serves as a thought-provoking exploration of how common knowledge influences human behavior and societal structures, prompting readers to reconsider the rituals and silences that characterize their everyday lives.
