The philosophy of common sense

Abstract

In this chapter, Sidgwick analyses the position of Thomas Reid, who appeals to Common Sense (as the source and warrant of certain primary data of knowledge) to argue that the mere ridiculousness of Hume’s conclusions provides good reason to dismiss them. In defending Reid against Kant’s condemnation, Sidgwick undertakes to present his own philosophy of common sense, which greatly influenced what came be known as the ‘Cambridge School of Philosophy’.