Pyrrhonism

School of Athens Skeptics

Nagarjuna with 84 mahasiddha cropped

MacedonEmpire

Balance scales symbol

Friedrich Nietzsche-1872

Pyrrhonism is an ancient Greek philosophy of skepticism, named after its founder, Pyrrho of Elis (c. 360-c. 270 BCE). Pyrrhonism promotes the idea of suspending judgment (epoche) to achieve mental tranquility (ataraxia). Unlike other philosophical schools, Pyrrhonists argue that for any argument, an equal and opposite argument exists, leading to the conclusion that one cannot determine the truth of any belief. This form of skepticism is distinct from academic skepticism, as it does not assert the impossibility of knowledge but rather refrains from making judgments about reality.

History

Pyrrhonism originated with Pyrrho, who was influenced by his travels to the East with Alexander the Great, where he encountered various philosophical traditions. After Pyrrho, the philosophy was further developed by his disciple Timon of Phlius, and later, in the Roman era, by Sextus Empiricus, whose writings are the main source of our knowledge about ancient skepticism. Sextus Empiricus categorized Pyrrhonism into three parts: the practical, the ethical, and the logical, emphasizing the goal of achieving ataraxia through the suspension of judgment.

Principles

The core principle of Pyrrhonism is the practice of epoche, or suspension of judgment, regarding beliefs. Pyrrhonists argue that for every argument, there is an equally convincing counterargument, leading to a state of unresolved doubt. This state is not seen as negative but as a means to achieve ataraxia, a state of tranquility free from distress and worry. Pyrrhonists engage in daily life without adhering to any particular dogma, making decisions based on appearances and conventions.

Influence

Pyrrhonism has had a significant influence on both ancient and modern philosophy. In ancient times, it offered a counterpoint to the dogmatic schools of thought like Stoicism and Epicureanism. In the modern era, Pyrrhonism has been seen as a precursor to empirical and scientific methods, emphasizing the importance of withholding judgment in the absence of clear evidence. Its ideas have also influenced contemporary philosophical debates on epistemology and ethics.

Criticism

Critics of Pyrrhonism argue that it leads to a form of radical skepticism that is self-defeating, as the principle of suspending judgment should also apply to the skepticism itself. Others contend that living according to Pyrrhonism is impractical, as making decisions and functioning in society requires some form of belief and commitment.

Conclusion

Pyrrhonism remains a significant philosophical tradition, offering insights into the nature of belief, knowledge, and the pursuit of tranquility. Its emphasis on open-mindedness and questioning has contributed to the development of critical thinking and scientific inquiry.