Explore the origins, semantic nuances, and cultural impact of 'conventional wisdom,' a term coined by John Kenneth Galbraith, reflecting widely accepted beliefs.
Conventional wisdom refers to the set of beliefs or opinions that are widely accepted and acted upon by the majority. These beliefs are typically familiar, predictable, and generally unquestioned within a society.
The term “conventional wisdom” was coined by the American economist John Kenneth Galbraith in his seminal work The Affluent Society (1958). Galbraith used the term to describe economic views that were broadly accepted and uncritically adhered to by the public and policymakers. Since its introduction, the term has been extended to encompass widely held beliefs in various domains where public opinion significantly influences events. It effectively supplanted the now nearly obsolete cliché “climate of opinion.”
The phrase “conventional wisdom” carries connotations of complacency and uncritical acceptance. It suggests that the beliefs in question are not necessarily based on empirical evidence or critical analysis but are instead maintained due to their familiarity and the comfort they provide. The term often implies a certain skepticism or critique of these commonly held beliefs, highlighting the potential for such wisdom to be outdated or misguided.
In contemporary culture, “conventional wisdom” is frequently invoked in discussions that challenge the status quo or question prevailing societal norms. It is often used in political discourse, economic analysis, and social commentary to critique the tendency of societies to adhere to established beliefs without sufficient scrutiny. For example, in literature and media, characters or narratives that challenge conventional wisdom are typically portrayed as innovative or rebellious.
In professional settings, “conventional wisdom” might be used to critique standard industry practices that hinder innovation. Socially, it may refer to societal norms that are resistant to change. In literary contexts, it often represents the antagonist force against which protagonists struggle.
The phrase “conventional wisdom” remains highly relevant in contemporary discourse, as it encapsulates the tension between widely accepted beliefs and the need for critical examination and innovation. Its continued usage in various fields, from economics to sociology, underscores its enduring significance. Durability rating: ★★★★★
“The enemy of the conventional wisdom is not ideas but the march of events.” - John Kenneth Galbraith, The Affluent Society (1958)