HoP 413 - Don’t Be So Sure - French Skepticism

The Reformation's Unexpected Consequences

The Reformation led to the emergence of more secular and religiously tolerant societies despite the initial intolerance among followers. The religious conflicts brought attention to the problem of resolving disagreements, as there was no shared standard to settle disputes. This highlighted the influence of philosophical skepticism, particularly influenced by Sextus Empiricus and the Hellenistic tradition of thought.

Montaigne's Skepticism and its Attraction

Montaigne's skepticism was inspired by the conflicting religious convictions of the time. He used the technique of opposing irresolvable views to challenge the certainty of beliefs and advocated for embracing uncertainties rather than clinging to dogmas. Montaigne's skepticism relied on the idea of continual changes in human affairs as judgments on them, displaying a principled uncertainty and modesty in his own opinions.

Charron's Compatibility of Skepticism and Theology

Charron, a friend of Montaigne, followed a similar skeptical line of thought but with a more theological approach. He believed in the value of skepticism for creating space for faith in authority while regarding human wisdom as uncertain. Charron upheld the compatibility of theological commitments and a skeptical or fallibilist epistemology by considering supernatural resources supplied by God. His skepticism aimed to combat violent conflicts by undermining self-righteous certainty and challenging schismatic teachings of the Reformation.

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HoP 413 - Don’t Be So Sure - French Skepticism

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Quick takeaways

Deep dives

The Reformation's Unexpected Consequences

Montaigne's Skepticism and its Attraction

Charron's Compatibility of Skepticism and Theology

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