Engaging in Kenson: An Extended Case Study of One Form of "Common" Sense
研究日本对话中一种微妙的“常识”形式——谦逊（kenson），通过分析一段看似异常的对话，结合民族志方法揭示其形式、含义及与美国谦虚概念的差异。
This paper seeks to understand a subtle form of relational common sense among Japanese conversational partners. To do so we examine possible explanations of a conversation between two Japanese that at first glance appears atypical. We argue that the most satisfying explanation is grounded in an understanding of the Japanese concept of kenson. Using ethnographic techniques the "common sense" of kenson is detailed in regards to its forms and meanings. Implications of this concept for conversation are discussed as well as comparisons made between kenson, the American notion of modesty and Japanese indirect refusals. Finally, kenson is discussed as an informal ritual grounded in social norms.