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Ability Quote by Sextus Empiricus

“Scepticism is an ability, or mental attitude, which opposes appearances to judgments in any way whatsoever, with the result that,owing to the equipollence of the objects and reasons thus opposed we are brought firstly to a state of mental suspense and next to a state of "unperturbedness" or…” quote by Sextus Empiricus
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“Scepticism is an ability, or mental attitude, which opposes appearances to judgments in any way whatsoever, with the result that,owing to the equipollence of the objects and reasons thus opposed we are brought firstly to a state of mental suspense and next to a state of "unperturbedness" or quietude.”

Sextus Empiricus

About This Quote

Source Treat: Outlines of Pyrrhonian Skepticism, 2nd century CE

Skepticism involves questioning appearances, creating mental suspense that can lead to calmness.

In simple terms: Questioning appearances can bring calm.

Key Takeaway

Embrace doubt to achieve mental peace.

Themes

skepticism critical thinking calmness philosophy

Mood

thoughtful calm inquisitive

Type

philosophical reflective inspirational

When to use this quote

  • academic debate
  • personal decision making
  • conflict resolution
  • media consumption

Key Concepts

Pyrrhonian skepticism mental suspension equipollence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can doubt be balanced with decisive action?
  • When does questioning become unproductive?
A Different Perspective

Skepticism may paralyze action if overapplied.

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