How to Be a Pyrrhonist: The Practice and Significance of Pyrrhonian Skepticism

This important volume brings together Richard Bett's essays on ancient Pyrrhonism, examining its self-presentation, argumentative procedures, and practical implications, showing how it raises questions that matter to us today.

Format: Hardback
Length: 278 pages
Publication date: 21 March 2019
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This significant volume presents a collection of Richard Bett's essays on ancient Pyrrhonism, offering readers a deeper comprehension of the fundamental principles of this philosophical school. The book delves into various aspects of Pyrrhonism, including its self-presentation strategies, such as its writing style, its inclination to showcase its uniqueness, and its use of humor. It also examines Pyrrhonism's argumentative approaches to specific topics, such as signs, space, and the Modes. Furthermore, the volume explores the practical implications of living as a Pyrrhonist, encompassing the ethical outlook that Pyrrhonism might permit and the overall character of a skeptical life. It also highlights how Pyrrhonism frequently raises questions that remain relevant to us today, both in our daily lives and in our philosophical contemplation.

Self-Presentation:
Pyrrhonism sought to present itself as a distinctive and unique philosophical school. It employed various methods to emphasize its distinctiveness, such as its distinctive writing style, which was characterized by its use of irony and sarcasm. Pyrrhonists also sought to distinguish themselves from other philosophical schools by claiming that they were the only ones who had discovered the truth about reality.

Argumentative Procedures:
Pyrrhonism had a systematic approach to argumentation, which was based on the principle of inquiry. Pyrrhonists believed that the only way to gain knowledge was through inquiry, and they used a series of logical steps to arrive at their conclusions. These steps included questioning assumptions, examining evidence, and drawing conclusions based on the evidence.

Ethical Outlook:
Pyrrhonism advocated a skeptical ethical outlook, which emphasized the importance of avoiding dogmatism and certainty. Pyrrhonists believed that there was no absolute truth, and that everything was subject to doubt. They advocated a life of inquiry and doubt, which they believed would lead to a more virtuous and ethical life.

Character of a Skeptical Life:
Living as a Pyrrhonist involved a commitment to inquiry and doubt. Pyrrhonists believed that it was important to constantly question their beliefs and assumptions, and to be open to new ideas and perspectives. They also believed that it was important to live a simple and modest life, free from the desire for luxury and material possessions.

Feasibility and Desirability:
The feasibility and desirability of a skeptical life are a matter of debate among Pyrrhonists. Some argue that a skeptical life is feasible and desirable, while others argue that it is impossible and undesirable. Pyrrhonists believe that the feasibility and desirability of a skeptical life depend on individual circumstances and preferences.

Questions that Matter to Us Today:
Pyrrhonism raises questions that are relevant to us today, both in our everyday lives and in our philosophical reflection. For example, Pyrrhonism questions the nature of truth and reality, and the role of reason and evidence in our understanding of the world. It also raises questions about the ethics of skepticism, and the implications of living a life of inquiry and doubt.

Weight: 522g
Dimension: 158 x 235 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108471077