Abstract

This essay considers a potential linkage between skepsis and the engendering of creativity. It explores and contests the possibility of a dialogical evolution of an intercultural scepticism, in particular a mode of skepsis conceived as a viable, productive way of life. It reflects on the conditions that encourage the development of a sceptical sensibility with reference to Sextus Empiricus, and then depicts an intercultural unfolding of the “sceptic ego” via reference to encounters with traditions such as Daoism and Romanticism. The result is a scepticism culminating in a disposition toward creativity and empathetic, interdisciplinary enquiry. Intercultural skepsis emerges as the possibility of manifesting as a “philosophy of creativity” that must demonstrate its usefulness, and justify itself, by producing concrete, communicable, worthwhile results.