What is Skepticism in Philosophy

Skepticism is a philosophical current that questions the possibility of achieving absolute and definitive knowledge about reality. Originating in Ancient Greece, skepticism is based on the idea that all beliefs and opinions must be subjected to critical and skeptical analysis, seeking to avoid blind acceptance of dogmas and prejudices.

Origins of Skepticism

Skepticism has its roots in Greek philosophy, more specifically in the School of Pyrrhus, founded by Pyrrhus of Elis in the XNUMXrd century BC Pyrrho argued that human knowledge is limited and that we cannot be certain about the truth of things. He argued that all opinions are equally valid and that we should suspend judgment when faced with philosophical questions.

Principles of Skepticism

Skepticism is based on some fundamental principles. The first of these is the principle of suspension of judgment, which consists of not taking a definitive position on any philosophical issue. This means that skepticism does not seek to affirm or deny anything, but rather to question and investigate existing beliefs and opinions.

The second principle is the principle of equipolence of arguments, which argues that all arguments have the same weight and value. This means that there are no stronger or weaker arguments, but rather different points of view that must be considered equally.

Skepticism and Knowledge

One of the main questions raised by skepticism is the possibility of achieving true and absolute knowledge about reality. Skeptics argue that all our beliefs and opinions are based on subjective perceptions and that we cannot be sure that they correspond to objective reality.

For skeptics, knowledge is always relative and provisional, subject to constant review and questioning. They argue that we must be open to new information and perspectives, always willing to review our beliefs and opinions in the face of new arguments and evidence.

Skepticism and Dogmatism

Skepticism is opposed to dogmatism, which is the stance of blindly accepting certain beliefs and opinions as absolutely true. While dogmatism seeks to affirm and impose its convictions, skepticism questions and investigates all beliefs, seeking to avoid blind acceptance of dogmas and prejudices.

For skeptics, dogmatism is an intellectually limited and closed stance, which impedes the advancement of knowledge and the search for truth. They argue that we should always be willing to question and review our beliefs, seeking to avoid blindly accepting dogmas and prejudices.

Skepticism and Relativism

One of the frequent criticisms of skepticism is the accusation of relativism, that is, the idea that all opinions are equally valid and that there are no objective criteria for evaluating the truth of things. However, skeptics argue that their aim is not to deny the existence of truth, but rather to question and investigate existing beliefs and opinions.

For skeptics, relativism is an intellectually lazy stance that avoids confronting opposing arguments and evidence. They argue that we should always be willing to question and review our beliefs, seeking to avoid blindly accepting dogmas and prejudices.

Skepticism and Science

Skepticism has a close relationship with science, as both share the search for truth and the constant questioning of established beliefs. Science is based on the scientific method, which consists of formulating hypotheses, carrying out experiments and analyzing the results in a critical and skeptical way.

Skeptics argue that science is the best tool we have to investigate reality and that we should trust its results, as long as they are based on solid evidence and subject to constant review. They argue that science is not infallible, but it is the most reliable method we have for seeking knowledge.

Criticisms of Skepticism

Skepticism also receives criticism from different philosophical currents. Some argue that skepticism is an intellectually paralyzing stance that impedes the construction of knowledge and the search for truth. Others argue that skepticism is an incoherent stance, because by questioning all beliefs, it also questions the belief in skepticism itself.

Despite criticism, skepticism continues to be a relevant and influential philosophical current, which invites us to question and investigate our beliefs and opinions. He reminds us of the importance of being open to dialogue and the confrontation of ideas, always seeking to improve our knowledge and avoid blindly accepting dogmas and prejudices.