Scepticism in Eastern Philosophy: Questioning Beliefs and Knowledge

Question 1

In Eastern Philosophy, which of these is NOT a recognized type of scepticism?

Accepted Answer

Moral scepticism

Answer

Epistemological scepticism

Answer

Metaphysical scepticism

Question 2

Which of the following statements is **not** an argument used by skeptics to question the possibility of obtaining knowledge?

Accepted Answer

The fact that we cannot prove something to be true does not necessarily mean that it is false.

Answer

We cannot know anything with absolute certainty, because our senses can deceive us.

Answer

An evil demon may be manipulating our perceptions and beliefs, making it impossible to know anything true.

Answer

Our experiences of the world are subjective and may not correspond to objective reality.

Question 3

What is the main difference between epistemological scepticism and ontological scepticism?

Accepted Answer

Epistemological scepticism questions the possibility of certain knowledge, while ontological scepticism questions the existence of the external world.

Answer

Epistemological scepticism is more radical than ontological scepticism.

Question 4

Which of the following philosophers is most closely associated with scepticism in Eastern philosophy?

Accepted Answer

Nāgārjuna

Answer

Descartes

Answer

Plato

Answer

Hume

Question 5

What is the primary implication of scepticism for our understanding of the world?

Accepted Answer

It undermines the possibility of attaining certain knowledge about the world.

Answer

It leads to a state of apathy and despair.

Answer

It encourages us to question everything we believe.

Question 6

Which of the following is a foundational tenet of Pyrrhonian scepticism?

Accepted Answer

Suspension of judgment (epoché)

Answer

Rejection of the possibility of knowledge

Answer

Acceptance of all beliefs without question

Answer

Empiricism

Question 7

Who is widely recognized for developing the concept of 'madhyamika' scepticism?

Accepted Answer

Nāgārjuna

Answer

Plato

Answer

Descartes

Answer

Pyrrho

Question 8

Which type of scepticism focuses on questioning the reliability of our senses and perceptions?

Accepted Answer

Epistemological scepticism

Answer

Ontological scepticism

Answer

Moral scepticism

Answer

Metaphysical scepticism

Question 9

What is the 'problem of the criterion' as it pertains to scepticism?

Accepted Answer

The difficulty in establishing a reliable standard for justifying beliefs as true

Answer

The inherent unreliability of our senses

Answer

The influence of emotions on our beliefs

Answer

The lack of definitive evidence to support knowledge claims

Question 10

Which of the following is a potential benefit of suspending judgment in Pyrrhonian scepticism?

Accepted Answer

Attaining greater peace of mind and tranquility (ataraxia)

Answer

Avoiding all possibilities of error

Answer

Achieving a position of moral superiority

Answer

Gaining absolute knowledge and certainty

Question 11

What term is used to describe the state of doubt and uncertainty characteristic of scepticism?

Accepted Answer

Aporetic

Answer

Empirical

Answer

Dogmatic

Answer

Rational

Question 12

Which critique of scepticism raises concerns about its practicality and potential to lead to inaction?

Accepted Answer

Scepticism may be impractical and hinder decision-making

Answer

Scepticism is a valid philosophical position

Answer

Scepticism is supported by substantial evidence

Answer

Scepticism is aligned with common sense

Question 13

What is the primary distinction between absolute and relative scepticism?

Accepted Answer

Absolute scepticism denies all knowledge, while relative scepticism questions specific knowledge claims.

Answer

Absolute scepticism concerns metaphysics, while relative scepticism relates to epistemology.

Question 14

Which of the following is a core argument supporting Madhyamika scepticism?

Accepted Answer

The principle of the interdependence and emptiness of all phenomena

Answer

The existence of a divine being

Answer

The unreliability of the senses

Answer

The problem of the criterion

Question 15

How can scepticism contribute to the pursuit of wisdom in Eastern Philosophy?

Accepted Answer

Scepticism can promote critical thinking, self-reflection, and a deeper understanding of reality.

Answer

Scepticism inherently conflicts with the goal of acquiring wisdom

Answer

Wisdom is solely attainable through religious faith

Question 16

The Madhyamika school of Buddhism asserts that all phenomena are inherently:

Accepted Answer

Empty of inherent existence

Answer

Ultimately real

Answer

Created by a creator god

Answer

Permanent and unchanging

Question 17

A common argument used by sceptics is the problem of:

Accepted Answer

Regress

Answer

Abduction

Answer

Induction

Answer

Deduction

Question 18

Zhuangzi's approach to scepticism is characterized as:

Accepted Answer

Non-dogmatic and paradoxical

Answer

Exclusively focused on religious beliefs

Answer

Highly systematic and logical

Answer

Empirically based and scientific

Question 19

One potential implication of scepticism is that it can lead to:

Accepted Answer

Suspension of judgment on matters of belief

Answer

Uncritical acceptance of all beliefs

Answer

Dogmatic certainty about the nature of reality

Question 20

Among the Ten Schools of Chinese philosophy, which one is NOT associated with scepticism?

Accepted Answer

Confucianism

Answer

Legalism

Answer

Zhuangzi

Answer

Mohism

Question 21

The ancient Greek philosopher considered the founder of sceptical philosophy is:

Accepted Answer

Pyrrho

Answer

Socrates

Answer

Aristotle

Answer

Epicurus

Question 22

A criticism of scepticism is that it can result in:

Accepted Answer

Apathy and inaction

Answer

Enhanced creativity

Answer

Emotional instability

Answer

Increased certainty and confidence

Question 23

A key distinction between epistemological and ontological scepticism lies in:

Accepted Answer

Epistemological scepticism questions knowledge, while ontological scepticism questions reality

Answer

Epistemological scepticism is more common in Eastern philosophy, while ontological scepticism is more common in Western philosophy

Answer

Epistemological scepticism is more radical than ontological scepticism

Question 24

Sceptical arguments often employ:

Accepted Answer

Reductio ad absurdum

Answer

Personal anecdotes

Answer

Statistical analysis

Answer

Emotional appeals