Skepticism in Ancient Greek Philosophy: Questioning the Nature of Knowledge

Question 1

Which argument is central to the skeptical tradition in Ancient Greek Philosophy?

Accepted Answer

Our senses are unreliable, making knowledge impossible.

Answer

Sensory experiences are a trustworthy source of knowledge.

Answer

Reasoning alone can lead to certain knowledge.

Answer

The world's constant change prevents us from gaining knowledge.

Question 2

Which of the following is NOT a skeptical argument that questions the possibility of certain knowledge?

Accepted Answer

The Cartesian Cogito, which claims that the act of doubting itself provides undeniable proof of one's existence as a thinking being.

Answer

The Dream Argument, which suggests we cannot differentiate between dreams and reality.

Answer

The Evil Demon Argument, which proposes the existence of a deceptive entity that could manipulate our perceptions.

Answer

The Argument from Illusion, which highlights the unreliability of our senses and the potential for misinterpretation.

Question 3

Which tenet is a core principle of Pyrrhonian skepticism?

Accepted Answer

We should suspend judgment and refrain from making assertions about reality.

Answer

Knowledge is impossible because sense perceptions are subjective.

Answer

Knowledge is attainable through empirical observation.

Question 4

Who established the Academic skeptical school?

Accepted Answer

Arcesilaus

Answer

Carneades

Answer

Sextus Empiricus

Answer

Pyrrho

Question 5

Which skeptical argument challenges the reliability of sense perception?

Accepted Answer

Sense perceptions are constantly changing and can contradict one another.

Answer

Knowledge gained through experience is infallible.

Answer

Reason is superior to sense perception in attaining knowledge.

Question 6

How do skeptics address the problem of the criterion?

Accepted Answer

They argue that any proposed criterion for truth would itself require justification, leading to an infinite regress.

Answer

The problem of the criterion can be solved by relying on intuition.

Question 7

According to Sextus Empiricus, what is the ultimate goal of skepticism?

Accepted Answer

To achieve mental tranquility and freedom from disturbance (ataraxia).

Answer

To demonstrate the futility of all philosophical inquiry.

Answer

To establish the existence of an objective reality.

Question 8

Which criticism highlights a limitation of skepticism?

Accepted Answer

Skepticism is self-refuting because it undermines its own arguments.

Answer

Skepticism is only applicable to philosophical questions, not practical matters.

Answer

Skepticism is excessively pessimistic and can lead to inaction.

Question 9

What is the significance of the skeptical method of epochē?

Accepted Answer

It involves suspending judgment and avoiding making definitive claims or denials.

Answer

It is a technique for achieving a higher state of consciousness.

Answer

It is a method for proving the existence of God.

Question 10

Which is NOT a possible consequence of skeptical doubt?

Accepted Answer

It enhances intellectual clarity and precision.

Answer

It can make decision-making challenging.

Answer

It can lead to a sense of apathy and inaction.

Answer

It can undermine our beliefs and certainties.

Question 11

Which of the following is NOT considered a central idea of skepticism?

Accepted Answer

Knowledge is certain and absolute

Answer

Truth may be hidden and cannot be fully grasped

Answer

Reason can lead to contradictions

Answer

Perception can be unreliable

Question 12

Who is known as the founder of the skeptical tradition in Ancient Greek Philosophy?

Accepted Answer

Pyrrho

Answer

Socrates

Answer

Zeno of Citium

Answer

Diogenes of Sinope

Question 13

Which of Pyrrho's teachings emphasized the need to suspend judgment and avoid making definitive claims?

Accepted Answer

Epoché

Answer

Ataraxia

Answer

Apatheia

Answer

Apragmosyne

Question 14

How did Sextus Empiricus attempt to approach skeptical challenges?

Accepted Answer

He developed the theory of hypothetical skepticism

Answer

He rejected skepticism and embraced dogmatism

Answer

He dismissed skepticism entirely and focused on other philosophical issues

Answer

He argued that skepticism was inherently self-refuting

Question 15

Which of the following is a key implication of skepticism for our understanding of the world?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely certain knowledge may be unattainable

Answer

Scientific knowledge can deliver certainty

Answer

Moral values are fixed and unchanging

Answer

Rationality can provide a path to absolute truth

Question 16

In what way did skeptical ideas influence the development of later philosophical movements?

Accepted Answer

Emphasizing the limits of reason and undermining dogmatic claims

Answer

Reinforcing the authority of religious dogma

Answer

Promoting a culture of anti-intellectualism

Answer

Encouraging a search for absolute certainty

Question 17

Which of the following is a potential benefit of engaging with skeptical ideas?

Accepted Answer

It can cultivate critical thinking, intellectual humility, and open-mindedness

Answer

It can provide a rigid moral code to live by

Answer

It can guarantee certainty in an uncertain world

Question 18

How can skepticism be relevant to our everyday lives?

Accepted Answer

It can help us approach uncertain situations, make informed decisions, and engage in healthy skepticism

Answer

It requires us to withdraw from society and embrace isolation

Answer

It has no practical implications beyond abstract philosophy

Question 19

Which of the following is NOT a major skeptical philosopher discussed in this unit?

Accepted Answer

Socrates

Answer

Diogenes Laërtius

Answer

Sextus Empiricus

Answer

Pyrrho

Question 20

Which of the following is a response to skepticism that attempts to establish a foundation for knowledge through reason and logic?

Accepted Answer

Rationalism

Answer

Pragmatism

Answer

Existentialism

Answer

Empiricism

Question 21

What is the term for the skeptical strategy of suspending judgment in the face of uncertainty?

Accepted Answer

Epochē

Answer

Dialectic

Answer

Aporia

Answer

Ataraxia

Question 22

Which of the following is a skeptical argument that challenges the reliability of our senses?

Accepted Answer

The argument from illusion

Answer

The argument from relativity

Answer

The argument from induction

Answer

The argument from change

Question 23

What is the practical implication of Pyrrhonian skepticism?

Accepted Answer

The adoption of a tranquil and unperturbed state of mind.

Answer

The pursuit of certainty at all costs.

Answer

The rejection of all beliefs and values.

Question 24

What is the significance of Sextus Empiricus's "Outlines of Pyrrhonism"?

Accepted Answer

It provides a systematic and comprehensive categorization of skeptical arguments.

Answer

It offers a definitive refutation of skepticism.

Answer

It is the earliest known work on skepticism.

Question 25

What is the ultimate goal of skepticism, as understood by its ancient Greek proponents?

Accepted Answer

To achieve tranquility and freedom from disturbance.

Answer

To disprove all beliefs and values.

Answer

To attain absolute certainty about the nature of reality.