AN INTERDISCIPLINARY AND INTERDEPARTMENTAL PROGRAM AT COLUMBIA

Initiatives & Events

Workshop in Ancient and Contemporary Philosophy: Pyrrhonian Skepticism as a Way of Life

What's Happening

Workshop in Ancient and Contemporary Philosophy: Pyrrhonian Skepticism as a Way of Life
-

Christiana Olfert (Tufts University)                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             
Commentators: Dhananjay Jagannathan (Columbia University), Luke Lea (Columbia University)

Philosophy Hall 716

 Columbia University’s Division of Humanities, Classical Studies Program, and Philosophy Department.

Abstract: The practical perspective on Skepticism starts from what I call the “Important Problem.” On the one hand, we tend to believe that some things are really important in life (as opposed to merely seeming important). On the other hand, believing that some things are really important is a source of great turmoil and disturbance—practically, emotionally, and interpersonally. Skepticism claims to be able to mitigate this turmoil and disturbance by helping us suspend judgment about what is really important in life. When we suspend judgment, they say, we can regain a peaceful and tranquil state of mind, and return to our relationships and our actions with a clear head.