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Webster 1913 Edition


Skepticism

Skep′ti-cism

,
Noun.
[Cf. F.
scepticisme
.]
[Written also
scepticism
.]
1.
An undecided, inquiring state of mind; doubt; uncertainty.
That momentary amazement, and irresolution, and confusion, which is the result of
skepticism
.
Hune.
2.
(Metaph.)
The doctrine that no fact or principle can be certainly known; the tenet that all knowledge is uncertain; Pyrrohonism; universal doubt; the position that no fact or truth, however worthy of confidence, can be established on philosophical grounds; critical investigation or inquiry, as opposed to the positive assumption or assertion of certain principles.
3.
(Theol.)
A doubting of the truth of revelation, or a denial of the divine origin of the Christian religion, or of the being, perfections, or truth of God.
Let no . . . secret
skepticism
lead any one to doubt whether this blessed prospect will be realized.
S. Miller.

Definition 2024


skepticism

skepticism

English

Alternative forms

Noun

skepticism (countable and uncountable, plural skepticisms)

  1. (US) The practice or philosophy of being a skeptic.
  2. (US) A studied attitude of questioning and doubt
  3. (US) The doctrine that absolute knowledge is not possible
  4. (US) A methodology that starts from a neutral standpoint and aims to acquire certainty though scientific or logical observation.
  5. (US) Doubt or disbelief of religious doctrines

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