OBVIOUSNESS meaning and definition

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The Power of Obviousness: Unpacking the Concept

In our everyday lives, we often encounter situations where something seems self-evident or patently clear. We might think to ourselves, "Of course, this is how it should be," or "That's just common sense." But what exactly does "obviousness" mean? In this article, we'll delve into the concept of obviousness and explore its significance in various aspects of life.

Defining Obviousness

At its core, obviousness refers to something that is easy to perceive, understand, or comprehend without requiring much mental effort or contemplation. It's an idea, principle, or fact that seems straightforward and requires little to no justification or explanation. In other words, the truth of an obvious statement or concept is readily apparent, leaving no room for debate or confusion.

Examples of Obviousness

To illustrate this concept, let's consider a few examples:

Gravity: The force of gravity pulling objects towards each other is an obvious phenomenon. We don't need to be scientists to understand that things have weight and will fall if dropped.
Fairness: It's obvious that treating others with kindness, respect, and empathy is the right thing to do. This moral principle doesn't require extensive justification or discussion.
Causes and Effects: The connection between cause and effect is often an obvious one. For instance, when we pull a trigger on a spring-loaded door, it's clear that the door will open.

The Importance of Obviousness

So why is obviousness significant? Here are a few reasons:

Efficient Communication: When discussing ideas or concepts, obvious truths can serve as a foundation for deeper discussions. They provide a common understanding, allowing people to build upon shared assumptions.
Common Sense: Obviousness reflects our collective wisdom and intuition. It's an acknowledgment that certain principles or facts are self-evident, making it easier to navigate complex situations.
Foundation for Learning: Recognizing obvious truths enables us to focus on more nuanced aspects of a subject, as the foundation is already established.

Challenges to Obviousness

While obviousness can be a powerful tool in our daily lives, there are instances where it may not apply:

Cultural or Personal Biases: Our individual experiences and cultural backgrounds can influence what we perceive as obvious. This highlights the importance of empathy and open-mindedness.
Contextual Factors: The same principle or fact might not be equally obvious in every situation. Context plays a crucial role in determining what is self-evident.

Conclusion

Obviousness is an essential aspect of our lives, as it allows us to tap into collective wisdom, build upon shared understandings, and navigate complex situations more effectively. By recognizing the power of obviousness, we can foster deeper connections with others, promote more efficient communication, and cultivate a stronger sense of common sense. The next time you encounter something that seems patently clear, take a moment to appreciate the role of obviousness in our everyday lives.

References

Johnson-Laird, P. N. (1983). Mental models: Toward a cognitive science of language, inference, and consciousness. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.
Lakoff, G., & Johnson, M. (1999). Philosophy in the flesh: The embodied mind and its challenge to Western thought. New York: Basic Books.

I hope this article provides a helpful exploration of the concept of obviousness!

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