Theory of Skepticism
Introduction
2+3=5
The Münchhausen trilemma. This argument states that there are only three possible ways
to justify a belief:
1. Circular reasoning: You justify your belief by appealing to another belief that is itself
unjustified.
Example: "I believe in God because the Bible says so, and the Bible is true because it's the
word of God."
2. Infinite regress: You justify your belief by appealing to another belief, which is itself
justified by another belief, and so on, ad infinitum.
Example: I believe in evolution because science proves it, and science is true because it's
based on evidence, and evidence is true because it's observed through our senses, and our
senses are true because they're part of our biology, and our biology is true because it's
evolved over time, and evolution is true because…
3. Dogmatism: You simply assert your belief without any justification.
Example: I believe that abortion is wrong because it's killing a human being. I don't need to
explain myself any further.
Arguments for Skepticism
Schröd inger's cat paradox: This paradox shows that it is impossible to be certain about
the state of a system until it is observed. A cat is placed in a sealed box with a radioactive
atom. If the atom decays, it triggers a mechanism that kills the cat. However, until the box is
opened, the cat is considered to be both alive and dead simultaneously.
The liar's paradox: This paradox shows that it is impossible to make a statement about the
truth of a statement without contradicting oneself. A person says, "I am lying." If they are
lying, then they are telling the truth. But if they are telling the truth, then they are lying.
The omnipotence paradox: This paradox shows that it is impossible to conceive of an all-
powerful being. An all-powerful being creates a rock that it cannot lift. If it can lift the rock,
then it is not all-powerful. But if it cannot lift the rock, then it is not all-powerful.
Defending Against Skepticism
We can still make reasonable judgments and decisions based on the evidence that we
have. Even though we cannot be certain about anything, we can still use our reason to make
informed decisions about what to believe and how to act.
Skepticism can help us to avoid dogmatism and intolerance. When we are skeptical, we are
less likely to believe that we are absolutely right and that everyone else is wrong. This can
help us to be more open-minded and tolerant of other viewpoints.
Skepticism can help us to live more meaningful lives. When we are skeptical, we are less
likely to be swayed by empty promises or quick fixes. This can help us to focus on what is
truly important in life and to live our lives with purpose and meaning.
Examples
The scientific method: Scientists use the scientific method to test their hypotheses and
theories. Even though they can never be certain that their theories are true, they can still
use the scientific method to make progress and to gain a better understanding of the world.
The legal system: The legal system is based on the principle that people are innocent until
proven guilty. Even though it is impossible to be certain that someone is guilty beyond a
reasonable doubt, the legal system still uses this principle to ensure that people are not
punished unfairly.
Everyday life: We make decisions and take actions every day based on our beliefs, even
though we cannot be certain that our beliefs are true. For example, we decide what to eat,
what to wear, and where to go based on our beliefs about what is good for us and what will
make us happy.
Conclusion
Skepticism is a valid philosophical position, but it is not a paralyzing one.
We can still make reasonable judgments and decisions, even though we cannot be certain
about anything.
Skepticism can help us to avoid dogmatism and intolerance, and it can help us to live more
meaningful lives.
Questions and Objections
If we cannot be certain about anything, then how can we be sure that our actions will have
any positive consequences?
If we cannot be certain about anything, then why should we bother trying to learn anything?
If we cannot be certain about anything, then how can we make any meaningful choices in
life?
Responses to Questions and Objections
Even though we cannot be certain about anything, we can still make reasonable judgments
about what actions are likely to lead to positive consequences. We can use our reason and
experience to make informed decisions about what to believe and how to act.
Even though we cannot be certain about anything, we should still try to learn as much as we
can about the world. Learning can help us to make better decisions and to live more fulfilling
lives.
Even though we cannot be certain about anything, we can still make meaningful choices in
life. We can choose to live our lives according to our values and to try to make a positive
difference in the world.
Overall, the theory of skepticism is a complex and challenging one. However, it is also a
valuable one, as it can help us to think more clearly and critically about our beliefs and
actions.
