Common Sense: A Political History

(Harvard University Press)   This book explores the political phenomenon of common sense — the wisdom of ordinary people — beginning with the aftermath of England’s Glorious Revolution. Rosenfeld demonstrates that common sense has been used to foster demagoguery and exclusivity as well as popular sovereignty.   Rosenfeld is an associate professor of history at the University of Virginia.

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The February 2026 cover of PAW, featuring a photo of Joseph Nye.
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February 2026

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