Practicing Skepticism

Perhaps it is best that I give a dictionary definition, even though we probably understand it. Skepsis is defined as philosophic doubt, and skeptical philosophy. Skeptic are defines as a person inclined to doubt all accepted opinions; a person who doubts the truth of religions. Skeptical is defined as inclined to question the truth or soundness of accepted ideas, facts. Now you know.

One can be skeptical about all things, or only about certain things. The first is doubtful about everything that comes their way. Nothing is acceptable to them even when presented with supporting facts. Thus one sees a very negative person. The second can be illustrated by the Sadducees of the Bible who did not believe in a resurrection. Today that would include atheists, evolutionists, agnostics, and the like, who also deny God and all things after death.

With all of that said allow me to point out that every thinking person practices skepticism at one time or another either temporarily or permanently about one thing or another. So there is good skepticism and bad skepticism.

One who denies or refuses all things is practicing bad skepticism. That is obvious I think. Then one who does not accept something proven by having the object in their hand which they can examine, or one who refuses to accept something supported by fact and truth, are also practicing bad skepticism. Both of these are likely to miss some very good things in living life.

Skepticism is important to living life and should not be shunned. Skepticism can serve us well. Thus a point or two may help in its use.

1. When presented with an idea or proposal unsupported by facts and truth then we should practice a demand for those facts and truth, and be skeptical until they are given. If it remains unsupported then we should ignore it, even run from it.

2. If someone tells you that you can make $1000 a day on the Internet, be very skeptical even to avoiding them. If someone tells you that you can make $50 a day on the Internet you might want to listen to what they are selling. In both cases they are selling something, usually information. So like examination in a Bookstore both should provide you at least a ten-page preview of what they are selling. If they will not then pass on by them.

3. There is an old worthy axiom even if it is not absolute. It goes, "believe nothing you hear and only half of what you see." The idea is that what comes in the ear, or what the eyes see, can be delusions. Practicing skepticism can eliminate the bad stuff, and yield the stuff worthy of further consideration.

4. Oft times the approach will be to your emotions, ego and pride. I have had legitimate salesmen in a reputable store try that on me. If anything has that sound or approach shift mental gears and go into an unemotional and critical examination of whatever it is. Practice good skepticism.

These few points show that skepticism is not all bad, and should be practiced wherever it is needed. If it will have a significant affect on your life then practice good skepticism.

Some things are plain bad for you and should be denied in your life. There are others that are good for you, yet may need a practice of some skepticism that invites genuine proof. The latter can then be accepted.

Remember that skepticism is a useful tool when practiced correctly.

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Yours Truly,

Cman

Because You Need To Know What I Think