In his recent publication, “When Everyone Knows that Everyone Knows,” renowned cognitive scientist Steven Pinker delves into the intricate ways humans understand and navigate each other”s thoughts. This phenomenon, often dubbed common knowledge, plays a crucial role in various aspects of life, from financial markets to interpersonal relationships.
Pinker argues that common knowledge can clarify many perplexing societal issues. These include the sudden emergence of financial bubbles, unexpected revolutions, the performative nature of diplomacy, the rise of social media shaming, and the nuances of awkward first dates. Despite its significance, he points out that individuals frequently strive to circumvent common knowledge, attempting to create situations where, although everyone is aware of something, they can maintain the illusion that others do not share that knowledge.
This tendency results in behaviors such as benign hypocrisy, subtle bribery, veiled threats, sexual innuendos, and the collective denial of obvious issues, often referred to as “the elephant in the room.” Through his exploration of these behavioral paradoxes, Pinker”s work invites readers to reflect on the complexities of human interactions and the underlying motivations that drive them.
Pinker is widely recognized as a leading expert on language and cognitive processes. He holds the position of Johnstone Family Professor of Psychology at Harvard University and contributes regularly to various prestigious publications. His insights continue to shape contemporary discussions in cognitive science and psychology.
