Arcesilaus

Definition

Arcesilaus was a prominent Greek philosopher and the head of the Academy in Athens around 265-241 BCE, known for his significant contributions to the development of skepticism. He redefined the philosophical landscape by advocating for the suspension of judgment, suggesting that one should withhold assent to any belief that could not be definitively proven, which marked a key shift in how knowledge and belief were understood in philosophy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Arcesilaus is often considered the founder of the skeptical school at Plato's Academy, influencing subsequent thinkers like Carneades.
2. He emphasized that certainty is unattainable, leading to his principle of epoché, or suspension of judgment.
3. Arcesilaus argued against dogmatism, encouraging a critical approach to knowledge rather than accepting beliefs without question.
4. His teachings highlighted the importance of mental tranquility achieved through withholding judgment about uncertain matters.
5. Arcesilaus' influence extended beyond skepticism, impacting later philosophical debates on ethics and the nature of belief.

Review Questions

• How did Arcesilaus contribute to the evolution of skepticism in philosophy?
  • Arcesilaus contributed to skepticism by redefining its core principles at Plato's Academy, particularly through his emphasis on the suspension of judgment. He argued that since certainty cannot be achieved regarding most beliefs, one should refrain from making definitive claims about knowledge. This approach influenced subsequent skeptics and shifted philosophical discussions towards a more critical examination of what can be known.
• Discuss how Arcesilaus' ideas on the suspension of judgment relate to modern epistemological debates.
  • Arcesilaus' advocacy for the suspension of judgment resonates with contemporary epistemological discussions about skepticism and the limits of human knowledge. By asserting that we should withhold assent to unprovable beliefs, he laid groundwork for current debates on rationality and belief formation. Modern philosophers often grapple with similar issues regarding what constitutes justified belief, reflecting Arcesilaus' enduring impact on understanding knowledge.
• Evaluate the implications of Arcesilaus' teachings for ethical decision-making in today’s context.
  • Arcesilaus' teachings on suspending judgment can significantly influence ethical decision-making today by promoting a cautious approach to moral beliefs and choices. His skepticism encourages individuals to critically evaluate their values and beliefs rather than accepting them at face value. This approach can lead to more thoughtful, reasoned decisions as people navigate complex ethical dilemmas, recognizing the uncertainty inherent in moral reasoning.

Related terms

Skepticism:

A philosophical approach that questions the possibility of certainty in knowledge, advocating for doubt and the withholding of belief in the absence of definitive evidence.

Plato's Academy: An ancient school founded by Plato in Athens, which became a center for philosophical thought and learning, influencing many later philosophers, including Arcesilaus.

Epistemology:

The branch of philosophy concerned with the nature and scope of knowledge, including the methods of acquiring it and the limits of what can be known.