From common sense to collective practices: a social-ontological commentary on Gramsci’s concept of common sense

Abstract

In my paper, I start by providing a brief taxonomy of three types of theories that conceptualize common sense. Thereby, I differentiate between positive, negativist, and dualistic/dialectical theories of common sense. By juxtaposing a “good” form of common sense that he calls buon senso and a “bad” form of common sense he calls senso comune Antonio Gramsci falls undoubtedly within the reach of the dualistic/dialectical theories of common sense. In order to scrutinize Gramsci’s idiosyncratic conceptualization of common sense, I turn to Kate Crehan’s interpretation of this concept and argue that Gramsci’s understanding of common sense is better understood as a social-ontological category that is historical, inclusive, relational, and intersectional. In this framework, collectivity is disclosed as the primary mode both of existence and of practice. Ultimately, and in order to demonstrate the current political ramifications of Gramsci’s understanding of common sense, I turn to his figure of the “modern prince.” As I conclude, it is the “bad” form of common sense as senso comune that is most capable of addressing the current demands of an inclusive and radical democracy.