skepticism
SKEP-tuh-siz-um
/ˈskɛptɪsɪzəm/
A skeptical attitude; doubt as to the truth of something; the theory that certain knowledge is impossible.
In daily speech, means healthy doubt or disbelief; in philosophy, represents systematic inquiry testing evidence before accepting claims.
The story behind the word. Traces back to Greek skeptikos ('inquiring'), derived from skeptesthai ('to look closely, examine'). The Ancient Greek Skeptics were philosophers who refused to jump to rash conclusions, insisting on looking carefully at all sides of an argument.
Word relationships
- doubt: 'Doubt' is an emotion or state of uncertainty; 'skepticism' is a systematic method or attitude of questioning.
- cynicism: 'Cynicism' assumes people are motivated by self-interest; 'skepticism' questions claims until proven by facts.
- credulity: 'Credulity' is a willingness to believe things too easily without proper evidence.
- dogmatism: 'Dogmatism' lays down rules as incontrovertibly true without supporting evidence.
Commonly confused with
- cynicism: 'Cynicism' mistrusts intentions; 'skepticism' mistrusts unverified facts.
Word family
- skeptic (noun): A person inclined to question or doubt accepted opinions.
- skeptical (adjective): Not easily convinced; having doubts.
Collocations
- healthy skepticism
- view with skepticism
- growing skepticism
- philosophical skepticism
Idioms & expressions
- healthy dose of skepticism
Example sentences
- "Healthy scientific skepticism ensures that extraordinary claims are subjected to rigorous empirical testing." Scientific Method
- "David Hume carried philosophical skepticism to its extreme by questioning whether we can ever prove cause and effect." Philosophical Inquiry
Memory hook
SKEPTIC: SCOPING out the facts before believing. Look closely before you leap into belief.
When not to use
Do not confuse with cynicism, which assumes bad motives; skepticism merely demands convincing evidence.
Fun facts
- Pyrrho of Elis, the father of Western skepticism, reportedly refused to step out of the way of approaching wagons because he doubted whether they were real.
Related words
Explore more words
skeptic, cynical, credulous, questioning, incredulous, inquiry
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