History of Pyrrhonism and the Influence of Pyrrhonian Skepticism: From Ancient to Modern Times

This book offers an in-depth exploration of Pyrrhonian skepticism, tracing its development from its origins in ancient Greece through its rediscovery during the Renaissance, and examining its lasting influence on modern and contemporary philosophy. Pyrrhonian skepticism, founded by Pyrrho of Elis and later systematized by Sextus Empiricus, is characterized by its radical suspension of judgment (epoche) and the pursuit of tranquility (ataraxia) through freedom from dogmatic belief. The book begins with an analysis of Pyrrho's foundational ideas and the subsequent elaboration of skepticism by his followers, focusing on how they questioned the possibility of certain knowledge and critiqued the dogmatism of other philosophical schools. The work then explores how Pyrrhonian skepticism faded in late antiquity as Christianity and Neoplatonism gained prominence, before being revived during the Renaissance through the rediscovery of Sextus Empiricus' writings. Pyrrhonism's impact on Enlightenment thinkers such as David Hume, Immanuel Kant, and Voltaire is examined, particularly in relation to debates about epistemology, science, and religion. The book also addresses how Pyrrhonian skepticism influenced existentialism and postmodernism in the 19th and 20th centuries, shaping the works of figures like Nietzsche, Kierkegaard, Sartre, and Derrida. In the final chapters, the book reflects on the relevance of Pyrrhonian skepticism in the modern world, particularly in relation to contemporary issues such as the information age, post-truth politics, ethical pluralism, and technological advancement. The conclusion highlights how Pyrrhonian skepticism, with its emphasis on critical inquiry, intellectual humility, and the suspension of dogma, continues to offer valuable insights for navigating the complexities and uncertainties of 21st-century life. This comprehensive study demonstrates the enduring appeal of Pyrrhonian skepticism as a framework for engaging with knowledge, belief, and truth, and its ongoing relevance for contemporary philosophical and cultural debates.