In the philosophy of Bertrand Russell, the term signifies a collection of basic beliefs and assumptions widely held within a given community or culture. These beliefs are often unexamined and accepted as self-evident truths, forming a foundation for everyday reasoning and practical action. As an example, the belief that physical objects continue to exist even when not perceived or the assumption that the laws of nature will continue to operate consistently are instances of these foundational, often tacit, agreements.
The philosopher considered this pervasive set of convictions both practically necessary for navigating daily life and potentially problematic for rigorous philosophical inquiry. While it provides a starting point for understanding the world and facilitating social interaction, its inherent lack of critical examination can lead to intellectual stagnation and the acceptance of false or misleading ideas. The historical context reveals that Russell’s views were shaped by his engagement with empiricism and his commitment to logical analysis as tools for uncovering truth, positioning it as a potential obstacle to genuine knowledge.
