There are many types of Skepticism. Most involve a type of
skepticism about some things, but adhere to absolutes about
other things. ("You can't trust those, but you *can* trust us")
But go way back to Aenesidemus and you get a rarely found form
of Skepticism, one where achieving peace by not feeling the need
to take a stand is actually quite possible. So, here are the Ten
Tropes of Aenesidemus (in English): Aenesidemus, 1st Century BC
Different animals manifest different modes of perception;
Similar differences are seen among individual men; For the same
man, information perceived with the senses is self-contradictory
Furthermore it varies from time to time with physical changes In
addition, this data differs according to local relations Objects
are known only indirectly through the medium of air, moisture,
etc. These objects are in a condition of perpetual change in
colour, temperature, size and motion All perceptions are
relative and interact one upon another Our impressions become
less critical through repetition and custom All men are brought
up with different beliefs, under different laws and social
conditions "The result of the skeptical tropes was that one
would suspend judgment (epoche) and then find oneself in
ataraxia, or tranquility, no longer disturbed by conflicting
claims. One would live in accordance with the phenomena or
appearances, without taking a stand on the truth or reality
behind them. One would follow one's natural impulses as well as
local customs and laws." [quoted text via
http://science.jrank.org/pages/11262/Skepticism-Pyrrhonism.html
] I wish there was more about this out there. Then again, it's
so simple, perhaps there's no need. -Ken
