skepsis

A philosopher expresses skepsis about the proposed theory.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Philosophical skepticism: "skepsis" refers to a philosophical attitude of doubt or inquiry, particularly the view that certain knowledge is impossible or that beliefs should be suspended until sufficient evidence is available.
   • General doubt: In broader usage, "skepsis" denotes a state of critical questioning or uncertainty about claims, ideas, or assumptions.

Usage Examples

• Philosophical context: (His skeptical approach made him doubt widely accepted beliefs.)
• General context: (Her doubt arose from insufficient evidence.)

Advanced Usage

• "methodological skepsis": a deliberate use of doubt as a tool for investigation, often in science or philosophy. (He used systematic doubt to find certain truths.)

Variants and Related Words

• Skeptic (n): a person who habitually doubts or questions claims. (He doubts their validity without proof.)
• Skeptical (adj): inclined to question or doubt. (She expressed doubt about its claims.)
• Skepticism (n): the practice or doctrine of doubt. (Doubt helps evaluate ideas.)

Synonyms

• Doubt: a feeling of uncertainty or lack of conviction.
• Questioning: the act of expressing uncertainty or seeking evidence.
• Incredulity: a state of being unwilling to believe something.

Related Idioms

• "to take with a grain of salt": to view something with skepticism or doubt. (Do not fully trust them.)
• "a healthy dose of skepticism": a reasonable amount of doubt to avoid being misled. (Question its claims.)