Though the philosophical process is different from the process of common sense, it cannot be said that the two are entirely different. As Aldous Huxley has said, “ Men live in accordance with their philosophy of life, their conception of the world.” Common sense involves the intelligence required in under-standing our day-to-day life. Life is impossible without it. On the other hand, in philosophy one solves the basic and general problems arising in his experience. While common sense is concerned with particular questions it is inadequate without the understanding of basic of general problems.
Therefore, philosophy and common sense are mutually complimentary. Common sense is certainly not the maximum of philosophy but it is definitely the minimum of it. The systematic form of common sense observations provide the basis for science and the systematization of scientific conclusion leads to philosophy. Thus while common sense is narrow, philosophy is comprehensive. It is hence that some Indian philosophers have equated common sense with ignorance. But ignorance is not the contradictory of knowledge. It points out to knowledge negatively.
This shows the intimate relationship of philosophy and common sense. In his everyday life the man finds much conflict and contradiction in the matters of common sense. When this conflict becomes excessive it gives rise to philosophical problems because the man in the matters of common sense. When this conflict becomes excessive it gives rise to philosophical problems because the man is in need of going to the depth of the common sense problems and find out the harmony lying under the apparent contradictions. This is done by philosophy. Therefore, philosophy is not only required by the philosopher but also by the common man.
The philosopher should never leave common sense. By being a philosopher he should be rather more successful in has every-day life though while engaged in the philosophical process he might forget the world around him. However high may be the mind of the philosopher, his feet should always rest on the solid earth because ultimately man is the son of this terrestrial world and he has to grow here. It is clear that the philosopher cannot do without common sense.
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