Skeptical Suspension in the Face of Disagreement

Archiv für Geschichte der Philosophie (forthcoming)
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Abstract

Pyrrhonian skeptics, according to Sextus Empiricus, suspend judgment in the face of equally strong oppositions, but they also continue to investigate. This joint characterization has puzzled scholars: Why keep investigating if the evidence demands epochē? On this point, Sextus has been accused of muddled thinking at best and incoherence at worst. In this paper, I explain how investigative activity harmonizes with the suspensive mindset. My interpretation helps to explain several puzzling features of Pyrrhonian philosophy in addition to the idea that one can both suspend judgment and continue investigating.

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Joseph B. Bullock
Trinity University

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References found in this work

From Proto-Sceptic to Sceptic in Sextus’ Outlines of Pyrrhonism.Robb Dunphy - 2022 - Apeiron: A Journal for Ancient Philosophy and Science 55 (3):455-484.
The Pyrrhonian Argument from Possible Disagreement.Diego E. Machuca - 2011 - Archiv für Geschichte der Philosophie 93 (2):148-161.
Skeptical Investigation.John A. Palmer - 2000 - Ancient Philosophy 20 (2):351-375.
Can the Skeptic Search for Truth?Diego E. Machuca - 2021 - Elenchos: Rivista di Studi Sul Pensiero Antico 42 (2):321–349.

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