sceptic etymology

Etymology:

  • Greek: "skeptikos"
  • Latin: "scepticus"
  • French: "sceptique"
  • English: "sceptic"

Meaning:

A person who doubts or questions accepted beliefs or established knowledge. A sceptic does not believe something unless there is convincing evidence to support it.

Origin:

The term "sceptic" has its roots in ancient Greek philosophy. It was first used by the philosopher Pyrrho of Elis (c. 360-270 BCE), founder of the Pyrrhonist philosophical school.

Pyrrho believed that it was impossible to attain certain knowledge about the world. He argued that all knowledge was subjective and that there were always two opposing viewpoints on any issue. Therefore, he advocated for a life of suspending judgment and avoiding dogmatic beliefs.

The term "sceptic" was later adopted by the Hellenistic philosophers of the Skeptical school, founded by Aenesidemus in the 1st century BCE. The Skeptics further developed Pyrrho's ideas and argued that it was impossible to prove anything definitively. They believed that all knowledge was uncertain and that one should withhold judgment until absolute certainty could be achieved (which they believed was unattainable).

The term "sceptic" has been used throughout history to describe philosophers, scientists, and individuals who doubt or question established beliefs. In modern usage, it typically refers to someone who is cautious about accepting claims without evidence or who has a questioning and critical attitude towards authority or popular opinion.

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