Conventional wisdom (/kənˈvɛnʃənəl ˈwɪzdəm/) is a commonly accepted belief or notion. The spelling of the word is based on the pronunciation of each syllable in the English language. The first syllable, "con", is pronounced as "kən", the second syllable, "ven", is pronounced as "ˈvɛn", the following two syllables, "tional", are pronounced together as "ʃənəl", and the final syllable, "wisdom", is pronounced as "ˈwɪzdəm". The phrase was first coined in the early 19th century and has become a frequently used idiom in modern language.
Conventional wisdom refers to widely accepted beliefs, opinions, or ideas that are deemed to be common sense or conventional knowledge, typically held by a majority of people or a particular group. It represents a collective understanding or prevailing view within a society, usually developed over time through shared experiences, cultural norms, or traditional teachings.
The concept of conventional wisdom often transcends specific domains, as it can encompass various aspects of life such as politics, economics, social norms, or even personal beliefs. It is a type of unwritten understanding that guides decision making and shapes behavior, typically serving as a foundation for practical judgments or societal expectations.
While conventional wisdom is frequently relied upon due to its perceived credibility and longevity, it is not necessarily always accurate or based on solid evidence. It can sometimes lead to flawed assumptions, as well as hinder progressive or innovative thinking by perpetuating outdated or unchallenged ideas. However, it can also provide a level of stability and cohesion within communities, offering a shared framework that helps individuals navigate the complexities of everyday life.
In summary, conventional wisdom represents the commonly held beliefs or knowledge of a particular society or group. It provides a framework for understanding and decision making, but its accuracy and relevance should be critically examined in order to promote growth, open-mindedness, and progress.
The term "conventional wisdom" is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century, specifically in the 1950s. It is attributed to the American economist John Kenneth Galbraith, who popularized the phrase in his book "The Affluent Society" published in 1958. However, Galbraith reportedly acquired the term from his colleague, the writer Walter Lippmann, although it was not commonly used until Galbraith's book gained significant recognition.
The etymology of "conventional wisdom" is fairly straightforward. "Conventional" derives from the Latin word "conventionem", which means "meeting" or "assembly". Over time, it came to refer to established or accepted practices, ideas, or beliefs within a society. "Wisdom", on the other hand, comes from Old English and Old Norse, and refers to deep knowledge, insight, or understanding.