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Scepticism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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scepticism

[ˈskɛptɪsɪz(ə)m ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

questioning attitude

Scepticism is a philosophical attitude of doubting the knowledge claims set forth in various domains. It serves as a foundation for scientific inquiry, promoting critical thinking and requiring evidence before acceptance of any assertion. Sceptics often examine the validity of beliefs and challenge assumptions in pursuit of truth.

Synonyms

disbelief, doubt, incredulity, mistrust, suspicion.

Examples of usage

  • His scepticism about climate change was unfounded.
  • The scientist approached the new theory with healthy scepticism.
  • She expressed scepticism regarding the efficacy of the new drug.
  • Philosophical scepticism can lead to profound insights.
  • Cynical scepticism can hinder genuine belief.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • Scepticism has different branches, such as philosophical scepticism, which questions the possibility of certainty in knowledge.
  • Pyrrhonism, named after the philosopher Pyrrho, promotes suspending judgment to achieve peace of mind.
  • In modern philosophy, scepticism is essential in the scientific method, pushing for evidence before accepting claims.

Science

  • In science, scepticism encourages the questioning of hypotheses and theories until they are supported by evidence.
  • The 'sceptical approach' is vital in scientific research to avoid biases and ensure accurate findings.
  • Historical figures like Galileo faced scepticism when proposing new scientific ideas, showcasing its role in scientific progress.

Psychology

  • Scepticism is linked to critical thinking skills, which help individuals assess information critically rather than accepting it at face value.
  • High levels of scepticism can lead to better decision-making, as it fosters a careful evaluation of claims.
  • However, excessive scepticism can lead to cynicism, where a person doubts even well-supported ideas.

Pop Culture

  • Scepticism is often portrayed in media through characters who are detectives or journalists, as they doubt before accepting the truth.
  • Many popular films and books emphasize scepticism, highlighting the journey of a character discovering the truth amidst various claims.
  • In social debates, scepticism may manifest through discussions about topics like climate change or medical treatments, where questioning leads to deeper understanding.

Origin of 'scepticism'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'skeptikos', meaning 'thoughtful' or 'reflective'.
  • In ancient Greece, scepticism was a philosophical school of thought that questioned the possibility of certainty in knowledge.
  • Scepticism became more prominent in the 17th century, influenced by philosophers who challenged traditional beliefs.

The word 'scepticism' has its roots in ancient Greek, derived from the word 'skeptikos', meaning 'thoughtful' or 'inquisitive'. This term was used to refer to a group of philosophers in the Hellenistic period who questioned the reliability of knowledge and human perception. The Skeptics, most notably prominent figures like Pyrrho and later Sextus Empiricus, believed that certainty was unattainable and advocated for a life of inquiry. As the concept evolved through history, the term transitioned into Latin as 'scepticus' and eventually into Old French, leading to the modern English adaptation. Initially, scepticism was mainly associated with philosophical thought, but over time, it has come to encompass a broader application across various fields, including science and everyday reasoning, illustrating a continuous challenge against accepting information at face value.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,338, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.