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Judgment Quote by Michel de Montaigne

“Their [the Skeptics'] way of speaking is: "I settle nothing. . . . I do not understand it. . . . Nothing seems true that may not seem false." Their sacramental word is . . . , which is to say, I suspend my judgment.” quote by Michel de Montaigne
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“Their [the Skeptics'] way of speaking is: "I settle nothing. . . . I do not understand it. . . . Nothing seems true that may not seem false." Their sacramental word is . . . , which is to say, I suspend my judgment.”

Michel de Montaigne

About This Quote

Source Essay: “Apology for Raymond Sebond”, 1580

Skeptics claim uncertainty, suspending judgment, suggesting that nothing is definitively true or false.

In simple terms: Skeptics doubt certainty.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions, seek evidence.

Themes

skepticism philosophy truth uncertainty

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • debating a claim
  • evaluating news
  • making a decision

Key Concepts

relativism critical thinking epistemology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What evidence would change your view?
  • When is healthy doubt useful?
A Different Perspective

Over‑reliance on doubt can paralyze action.

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