ABSTRACT
It is the notion of common sense as a paradigm of thought that is the primary focus of this book. Throughout time and in nearly all social situations people have been expected to abide by some sort of prevailing paradigm (defined as a primary theme, characteristic, or single stem) of thought that determines their behavior. Paradigms of thought help to structure social order—a particular manner in which humans are expected to behave (both in private and in public)—in a particular society, organization, or group. As presented in this chapter, there are four established paradigms of thought that have been around since the earliest humans first roamed the earth: tradition; faith; enlightened, rational thought; and, common sense. The idea of social order and how human behavior should best be shaped and maintained has been a staple characteristic of our existence since the dawn of humanity.
