Pyrrhonism Past and Present: Inquiry, Disagreement, Self-Knowledge, and Rationality

This book explores Pyrrhonism, a prominent form of skepticism in Western philosophy, and its impact on Renaissance and modern philosophy. It critically interprets Sextus Empiricus' works and examines contemporary debates from a neo-Pyrrhonian perspective, appealing to researchers and graduate students interested in skepticism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 30 March 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate nature and profound significance of Pyrrhonism, widely recognized as the most influential and prominent form of skepticism in Western philosophy. Not only did Pyrrhonism hold a prominent position in the philosophical landscape of the Hellenistic and Imperial ages, but its impact extended to Renaissance and modern philosophy, and it continues to be a subject of lively scholarly discourse among ancient philosophy scholars and epistemologists alike. At the heart of this book lies the brand of Pyrrhonism expounded in the extant works of Sextus Empiricus. Its dual purpose is to provide a critical interpretation of some of the central aspects of Sextus' skeptical outlook and to examine certain debates in contemporary philosophy through a neo-Pyrrhonian lens.

The first part of the book explores the aim of skeptical inquiry, the defining characteristics of Pyrrhonian argumentation, the epistemic challenge posed by the Modes of Agrippa, and the Pyrrhonists' stance on the requirements of rationality. It sheds light on the philosophical quest for truth, the nature of skepticism, and the methods employed by Pyrrhonian thinkers to undermine the credibility of traditional beliefs.

The second part delves into contemporary discussions of the epistemic significance of disagreement, the limits of self-knowledge, and the nature of rationality. It examines the role of skepticism in shaping our understanding of knowledge, truth, and belief and explores the challenges and opportunities that arise from embracing a Pyrrhonian perspective.

This book is a valuable resource for researchers and graduate students interested in skepticism, philosophy, and the history of intellectual thought. It offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of Pyrrhonism, providing a deeper understanding of its philosophical principles, arguments, and applications. Through its critical analysis and contemporary perspective, the book contributes to the ongoing dialogue between ancient and modern philosophy, fostering a broader appreciation of the enduring significance of Pyrrhonism in the pursuit of knowledge and truth.

Weight: 462g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030912123
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022