Carneades

Definition

Carneades was an ancient Greek philosopher who played a key role in the development of Academic skepticism, particularly known for his arguments against the possibility of certain knowledge. He emphasized that beliefs should be evaluated based on their plausibility rather than on absolute certainty, challenging the views of dogmatists who claimed knowledge could be attained. His ideas contributed to the ongoing debate between skeptics and dogmatists in the context of philosophical thought, influencing both Pyrrhonism and later developments in skepticism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Carneades is often credited with developing the argument known as 'the argument from opposites,' which stated that for any claim, an opposing claim can also be made.
2. He famously visited Rome, where he presented contrasting arguments for and against justice on the same day, shocking his audience with his ability to argue both sides.
3. Carneades asserted that knowledge is not achievable, as all beliefs are subject to doubt and skepticism should lead to a suspension of judgment.
4. His work laid the foundation for later skeptics, influencing philosophers such as Sextus Empiricus, who expanded upon these ideas in Pyrrhonism.
5. Carneades emphasized the role of appearances and impressions in forming beliefs, suggesting that practical engagement with beliefs could guide actions even without certain knowledge.

Review Questions

• How did Carneades' arguments shape the distinction between Academic skepticism and Pyrrhonism?
  • Carneades' arguments highlighted the differences between Academic skepticism and Pyrrhonism by focusing on the evaluation of beliefs based on their plausibility. While Academic skeptics accepted the impossibility of certain knowledge but still engaged with beliefs for practical purposes, Pyrrhonists took a more radical approach by suspending judgment altogether. Carneades' emphasis on the argumentative capacity to hold conflicting views also showcased the nuanced approach of Academic skepticism in contrast to the more extreme skepticism of Pyrrhonism.
• What impact did Carneades have on later philosophical thought regarding the nature of knowledge and belief?
  • Carneades significantly influenced later philosophical thought by challenging prevailing notions about knowledge and belief. His assertion that knowledge is unattainable prompted subsequent thinkers to explore skepticism in greater depth, particularly in terms of how beliefs can be assessed based on their plausibility rather than certainty. This laid groundwork for later philosophers such as Descartes and Hume, who grappled with similar questions about epistemology and the limits of human understanding.
• Evaluate how Carneades’ visit to Rome demonstrated the practical implications of his skeptical philosophy on public perception and debate.
  • Carneades' visit to Rome exemplified the practical implications of his skeptical philosophy by showcasing his ability to engage an audience through compelling rhetoric. By presenting contradictory arguments for justice on the same day, he illustrated the relativity of beliefs and challenged his listeners' confidence in absolute truths. This not only highlighted the effectiveness of skeptical discourse in philosophical debate but also encouraged Romans to reconsider their own views on ethics and knowledge. Such demonstrations reflected Carneades’ belief that skepticism could prompt deeper inquiry and critical thinking among individuals confronted with differing perspectives.

Related terms

Academic Skepticism: A school of skepticism that originated in the Academy founded by Plato, asserting that knowledge is impossible to achieve but emphasizing practical judgment in everyday beliefs.

Pyrrhonism: A form of skepticism established by Pyrrho, advocating for a suspension of judgment on all beliefs to achieve peace of mind and tranquility.

Skepticism: The philosophical position questioning the possibility of certainty in knowledge, leading to a critical examination of beliefs and claims to know.