pyrrhonism

A philosopher discusses the principles of Pyrrhonism with a student.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Philosophical skepticism: "Pyrrhonism" is a school of philosophical skepticism founded by Pyrrho of Elis in ancient Greece. It advocates for the suspension of judgment (epochē) about the truth of all beliefs or doctrines, arguing that certainty is unattainable and that tranquility (ataraxia) comes from withholding assent.
   • General skepticism: By extension, "Pyrrhonism" can refer to any extreme or systematic doubt about the possibility of knowledge.

Usage Examples

• (A system of thought that questions the possibility of certain knowledge.)
• (Her extreme skeptical attitude.)

Advanced Usage

• "Pyrrhonistic" (adj): relating to or characteristic of Pyrrhonism.
  • The Pyrrhonistic approach challenges all dogmatic assertions. (The approach that suspends judgment on all claims.)

Variants and Related Words

• Pyrrhonian (adj): of or relating to Pyrrho or his philosophy.

  • The Pyrrhonian tradition influenced later skeptical movements. (The tradition stemming from Pyrrho.)

• Pyrrhonist (n): a follower or adherent of Pyrrhonism.

  • As a Pyrrhonist, she refused to commit to any philosophical position. (A person who practices systematic doubt.)

Synonyms

• Skepticism: the doctrine that true knowledge is uncertain.
• Agnosticism (in a philosophical sense): the view that the existence of God or ultimate reality is unknown and perhaps unknowable.

Related Idioms

• "Pyrrhic victory" (note: not directly related to Pyrrhonism, but shares the name "Pyrrhus"): a victory won at too great a cost. (This is a separate concept; Pyrrhonism is named after Pyrrho, not Pyrrhus.)

Additional Notes

• Historical context: Pyrrhonism is distinct from Academic skepticism, which asserts that knowledge is impossible. Pyrrhonists suspend judgment on whether knowledge is possible.
• Modern relevance: Pyrrhonism has been compared to some forms of postmodernism and radical doubt in contemporary philosophy.