INTRODUCTION  TO JOHN KNOX WITHERSPOON

“Common sense” realism is a philosophical system termed variously “first principles, principles of common sense, common notions, [or] self-evident truths.” As its name implies, it works on the principle of “common sense” and sanctions only those actions that result in the greatest common good. Since “the learned and the unlearned, the philosopher and the day-laborer, are upon a level,” and are considered equally endowed, the philosophy encourages balance and is also egalitarian and democratic. Though he grew up in a monarchy had trained to be a pastor, he elected to become a pedagogue and make America his home. When he saw how unfairy Britain was treating the colonies, he jumped into politics. Witherspoon’s value system evolved with the needs of his newfound country till it found its moorings in common sense realism. This philosophy allowed him to strike a compromise between the conflicting pulls in his personal life.  The same principle allowed him to find a resolution for his country. Witherspoon could leave behind unmatched legacy as pastor, pedagogue and politician because though his work and actions, he helped his country resolve the conflict between church and state, religion and science, strong federal power against state rights.

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