Scepsis, derived from the Greek word "skepsis," refers to a philosophical attitude or stance characterized by doubt, skepticism, and the suspension of judgment. It is a critical approach that questions and challenges the acceptance of absolute truth, dogmas, or claims to knowledge. Scepsis can be seen as a method of inquiry employed to investigate and examine various beliefs and propositions, scrutinizing them through rigorous examination and skepticism.
Within the field of philosophy, scepsis encompasses various schools of thought, including Pyrrhonian scepticism and Academic scepticism. Pyrrhonian scepticism, associated with Pyrrho of Elis, emphasizes the idea of epoche or suspension of judgment, advocating for the importance of reaching a state of tranquility by refraining from taking positions on matters that are beyond human comprehension. Academic scepticism, on the other hand, is rooted in Plato's Academy and characterized by the notion that it is impossible to attain knowledge with certainty due to the limitations of human perception and cognition.
In a broader sense, scepsis can extend beyond philosophy and is often associated with skepticism as a general approach to life, knowledge, and claims made by institutions, authorities, or individuals. It promotes critical thinking, evidence-based reasoning, and a healthy skepticism towards both established and novel ideas. By encouraging an attitude of inquiry and doubt, scepsis serves as a safeguard against accepting information or beliefs uncritically, fostering intellectual humility and open-mindedness.
Overall, scepsis represents a method of intellectual exploration and engagement with the world that embodies doubt, inquiry, and skepticism, avoiding hasty conclusions and encouraging a constant reassessment of one's beliefs and knowledge.
