Common sense, the history, and the Theory of Relativity

Abstract

The relationship between modern physics and common sense is discussed by investigating whether there is any substantial role left for the latter in the scientific activity. It is shown that ordinary judgement is needed in some of the most crucial decisions that a researcher has to make in his or her work. The history of a notorious counter-intuitive physical theory (i. e. relativity) is quoted to provide examples in support of this claim, and some little-known aspects of this theory's reception by the scientific community are discussed. A simple model of collective behaviour leading to a consensus formation is briefly described, as an example of a non-technical argument which is, nonetheless, useful at making sense of the scientific activity. Some indications for the teaching of science arising from this approach are sketched in the final section.