Do You Know What I Know?

Published: Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at 10:00 am

The Complexities of Common Knowledge: A New Perspective

In his new book, "When Everyone Knows That Everyone Knows . . . : Common Knowledge and the Mysteries of Money, Power, and Everyday Life," cognitive scientist Steven Pinker delves into the intricate concept of "common knowledge" and its profound impact on human behavior. Pinker defines common knowledge not just as shared information, but as knowledge that everyone knows is known by everyone else. This differs from mutual knowledge, where information is shared but not necessarily confirmed to be known by all parties.

Pinker illustrates how common knowledge facilitates coordination and collective action. He uses the example of the emperor's nakedness, where the shared understanding of the emperor's lack of clothing shifted public perception and empowered criticism. This concept extends to everyday scenarios, such as navigating traffic or understanding social cues.

However, Pinker also highlights the complexities and potential pitfalls of common knowledge. He argues that the deliberate avoidance or manipulation of common knowledge can serve various purposes, from maintaining social harmony to providing plausible deniability. The book explores how the internet, while initially envisioned as a tool for collaboration, has accelerated the expression of opinions, potentially undermining the nuanced dance of common knowledge. The rapid dissemination of information online can lead to quicker judgments and divisions, replacing the subtleties of traditional social interactions.

Pinker's analysis suggests that the creation, dissemination, and denial of common knowledge are far more intricate than we often realize. He challenges the notion that more common knowledge is always beneficial, emphasizing the importance of managing affiliations and navigating the complexities of human relationships.

BNN's Perspective:

Pinker's exploration of common knowledge offers a valuable perspective on the dynamics of modern society. While transparency and open communication are often lauded, this analysis reminds us that the strategic use of ambiguity and the careful management of shared knowledge can be crucial for maintaining social cohesion and navigating complex situations. It's a nuanced reminder that the pursuit of absolute transparency isn't always the most effective path.

Keywords: Common knowledge, Steven Pinker, coordination, social dynamics, mutual knowledge, collective action, internet, transparency, social cohesion, human behavior, shared information, communication, society, relationships, opinions, ambiguity.

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