What is Skepticism in Philosophy

Skepticism in philosophy is a current of thought that questions the possibility of achieving absolute and objective knowledge about the world. It emerged in Ancient Greece, with the philosophers Pyrrhus of Elis and Sextus Empiricus, and has influenced philosophical thought over the centuries. Philosophical skepticism seeks to analyze the bases of human knowledge, questioning established certainties and beliefs, and defends the suspension of judgment as an epistemic stance.

Origins of Skepticism in Philosophy

Skepticism in philosophy has its origins in Ancient Greece, with the philosophers Pyrrhus of Elis and Sextus Empiricus. Pyrrho de Élis was the founder of Pyrrhonian skepticism, a philosophical current that defends the suspension of judgment in relation to philosophical and scientific questions. He argued that all opinions are equally plausible and that we cannot be certain about the truth of things. Sextus Empiricus, in turn, developed academic skepticism, which questions the possibility of achieving absolute knowledge.

Principles of Skepticism in Philosophy

Skepticism in philosophy is based on some fundamental principles. One of them is the suspension of judgment, which consists of not definitively affirming or denying anything. Skeptics argue that we cannot be certain about the truth of things, as our senses can deceive us and our beliefs can be influenced by our individual experiences and perspectives. Another important principle is the search for tranquility, which consists of not allowing oneself to be disturbed by the uncertainties and contradictions of the world.

Types of Skepticism in Philosophy

Skepticism in philosophy can be divided into different types, according to the questions that are questioned. Radical skepticism, for example, questions the possibility of knowing anything absolutely and objectively. He argues that all our beliefs and opinions are just mental constructions and that we cannot access reality itself. Moderate skepticism, on the other hand, only questions certain areas of knowledge, such as metaphysics and theology, while accepting the possibility of knowing empirical reality.

Criticisms of Skepticism in Philosophy

Skepticism in philosophy has been the target of various criticisms throughout history. Some philosophers argue that skepticism leads to relativism, that is, to the idea that all opinions are equally valid and that we cannot distinguish between true and false. Furthermore, skepticism can lead to inaction and a lack of commitment to any position, as we cannot be certain about the truth of things. Finally, skepticism can be considered a negative stance towards knowledge, as it questions the possibility of reaching the truth.

Influence of Skepticism on Philosophy

Skepticism in philosophy has exerted a great influence on philosophical thought over the centuries. It has been used as a critical tool to question established certainties and the bases of human knowledge. Skepticism has also been used as an epistemic stance, that is, as a way of approaching knowledge, defending the suspension of judgment and the search for tranquility. Furthermore, skepticism has been used as a way of dealing with the uncertainties and contradictions of the world, seeking a more flexible stance and open to dialogue.

Relationship of Skepticism with Other Philosophical Currents

Skepticism in philosophy has a complex relationship with other philosophical currents. On the one hand, he opposes dogmatism, which defends the existence of absolute and unquestionable truths. Skepticism questions the possibility of achieving these truths and defends the suspension of judgment. On the other hand, skepticism is also opposed to relativism, which argues that all opinions are equally valid. Skepticism argues that we cannot be certain about the truth of things, but it does not argue that all opinions are equally plausible.

Applications of Skepticism in Philosophy

Skepticism in philosophy has several practical applications. It can be used as a critical tool to question established certainties and the bases of human knowledge. Skepticism can also be used as an epistemic stance, that is, as a way of approaching knowledge, defending the suspension of judgment and the search for tranquility. Furthermore, skepticism can be used as a way of dealing with uncertainties and contradictions in the world, seeking a more flexible and open stance to dialogue.

Examples of Skepticism in Philosophy

There are several examples of skepticism in philosophy throughout history. One of the best known is Pyrrhonian skepticism, developed by Pirro de Élis. He argued that all opinions are equally plausible and that we cannot be certain about the truth of things. Another example is academic skepticism, developed by Sextus Empiricus, who questions the possibility of achieving absolute knowledge. Furthermore, skepticism can also be found in more recent philosophical currents, such as pragmatism and postmodernism.

Conclusion

In short, skepticism in philosophy is a current of thought that questions the possibility of achieving absolute and objective knowledge about the world. It emerged in Ancient Greece, with the philosophers Pyrrhus of Elis and Sextus Empiricus, and has influenced philosophical thought over the centuries. Philosophical skepticism seeks to analyze the bases of human knowledge, questioning established certainties and beliefs, and defends the suspension of judgment as an epistemic stance. Despite criticism and complex relationships with other philosophical currents, skepticism has been used as a critical tool, an epistemic stance and a way of dealing with uncertainties in the world.