Scepticism (The Problems of Philosophy : Their Past and Present) - Softcover

Hookway, C.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0415087643 ISBN 13: 9780415087643

Publisher: Routledge, 1992

Synopsis

Christopher Hookway is concerned with a subject which has preoccupied philosophers for two thousand years. Some have argued that we know nothing and that none of our beliefs are justified. Others have claimed that this concern is entirely misplaced. The early chapters of "Scepticism" examine the canon of sceptical arguments by considering contrasting views, such as those of Sextus Empiricus, Descartes, and Hume, on why scepticism is important. Dr. Hookway also discusses the idea that scepticism is philosophically interesting only if it represents a genuine threat to our cognitive achievements. He maintains that sceptical arguments question our ability to carry out inquiries while retaining the sense that we can nevertheless take full responsibility for our actions. He subsequently covers contemporary discussions of scepticism.

About this title

Review

`Hookway has written an interesting and important book. It is interesting because it casts the challenge of skepticism in a new light through relating to rational autonomy. It is an important book because it is free of glibness in recognising the full force of sceptical challenge.' - Robert J. Fogelin, Philosophy and Phenomenological Research

`In his clearly written, carefully signposted study, Christopher Hookway canvasses the history of scepticism, and offers his own view of how we should respond.' - A.C. Grayling, TLS

Edition details

• Publisher: Routledge
• Publication date: 1992
• ISBN 10: 0415087643
• ISBN 13: 9780415087643
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 288