Common Sense Society

Common Sense Society (CSS) was founded by American and European students in 2009[1] to promote civic engagement, entrepreneurship, and the ideals of responsible liberty among university students and young professionals. CSS hosted regular debates, panel discussions, lectures, workshops, film screenings, and book events, adding thousands of alumni, members, and patrons. Today—with a community-centered model across North America and Europe—CSS educates 21st-century generations and engages in public discourse surrounding the principles of liberty, prosperity, and beauty[1] through its fellowship programs, curricular resources, publications, public events, civic initiatives, and targeted national media campaigns.[2]

Official logo of Common Sense Society

Why "Common Sense"?
Common Sense Society's opening event: The Future of Transatlantic Relations - a debate

CSS chose the term "common sense" because the Society aims to promote sensible and eloquent dialogue and a free exchange of ideas within the political sphere, as opposed to either reactionary or ideologically charged public discourse. The notion of common sense finds its earliest formulation in ancient Greece. The Greek word έμπειρία connoted that which could be understood through experiencing life. The Romans likewise understood sensus communis to connote sensibility and humanity. The Christian tradition also presents a theological equivalent in the concept of “general” or “natural revelation” which understood the existence of morality and God to be self-evident in the material world. 

Perhaps the most famous use of Common Sense occurred in 1776 when Thomas Paine, a British political theorist, published a pamphlet entitled “Common Sense Addressed to the Inhabitants of America” which set forth the case for American Independence from Great Britain. At the heart of his appeal was a belief that political ideals and practice must be joined. It was in this pivotal time where political ideals were being popularly acted upon to an extent not previously seen in history that Paine declared:  “the cause of America is, in great measure, the cause of all mankind.” The members of CSS emphasize that modern political discourse and policy-making are greatly enhanced by an understanding of and engagement with political theory, philosophy, and historical experience. Thus, CSS provides a regular forum for rational discourse, cultural celebration, and civic engagement. Reason rooted in tradition.

Common Sense Conference and Gala

On January 28, 2022, Common Sense Society hosted its annual Conference and Gala at the historic Breakers Resort in Palm Beach, Florida. The Conference included two panel discussions on The Future of American Education[3] and Woke Capitalism,[4] followed by a conversation between Dr. Jordan B. Peterson and Maestro Ignat Solzhenitsyn.[5] The Gala dinner program included remarks by CSS Chairman Mr. Thomas Peterffy,[6] a special address by Gala Honorary Chairman Florida Governor Ron DeSantis,[6] the presentation of The Common Sense Courage Award to democracy and human rights activist Ms. Rosa María Payá,[6] a keynote address by CSS Trustee Professor Niall Ferguson,[7] and the presentation of the inaugural Sir Roger Scruton Prize to Dr. Jordan B. Peterson.[7] The evening concluded with an orchestral tribute in solidarity with the captive nations of Cuba and Venezuela featuring Latin American composers and conducted by Jan Wagner.

References
  1. "Marion Smith Appointed President and CEO of Common Sense Society". AP NEWS. 2021-07-12. Retrieved 2022-02-22.
  2. "Why one organization is giving $2,000 grants to promote civil discourse |". universitybusiness.com. 2021-09-30. Retrieved 2022-02-22.
  3. "Common Sense Society Conference Discussion on Education | C-SPAN.org". www.c-span.org. Retrieved 2022-03-22.
  4. "Common Sense Society Conference Discussion on Capitalism | C-SPAN.org". www.c-span.org. Retrieved 2022-03-22.
  5. "Common Sense Society Conference and Awards Gala, Discussion with Jordan Peterson | C-SPAN.org". www.c-span.org. Retrieved 2022-03-22.
  6. "Common Sense Society Evening Gala, Governor DeSantis and Rosa Maria Paya Remarks | C-SPAN.org". www.c-span.org. Retrieved 2022-03-22.
  7. "Common Sense Society Evening Gala, Niall Ferguson and Jordan Peterson Remarks | C-SPAN.org". www.c-span.org. Retrieved 2022-03-22.
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