Skepticism

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/skepticism

Introduction

### Course Review: Skepticism on Coursera In an age where misinformation can spread like wildfire and trust in social institutions appears to be at an all-time low, the course "Skepticism" on Coursera emerges as a timely and essential study. This course delves into the complex interplay of doubt in contemporary society—examining how skepticism can range from a healthy questioning of facts to a debilitating cynicism that can foster societal division. #### Course Overview The course promises an insightful exploration of skepticism, a concept that is profoundly relevant in today's context—where debates surrounding climate change, vaccinations, and media trust are prevalent. It seeks to uncover the nuanced layers of skepticism, encouraging learners to distinguish between warranted doubt and unreasonable skepticism. The course provides a comprehensive framework to assess how critical inquiry can serve as a catalyst for positive societal change or lead to dangerous relativism when taken to an extreme. #### Syllabus Breakdown 1. **What is Skepticism?** This introductory module sets the stage for understanding the foundational concepts of truth and knowledge. You'll explore how skepticism plays a crucial role in public debates and how a measured form of skepticism can empower informed discourse. By examining contemporary issues such as climate change denial and fake news, learners are prompted to consider how skepticism can either enlighten or mislead. 2. **Is Knowledge Impossible?** The second module provokes deeper inquiry into the nature of knowledge: can we ever truly know anything? Drawing on thought experiments like the "Brain-in-a-Vat," participants are taught to navigate foundational questions of doubt and the limits of perception. This section is particularly engaging for those who relish philosophical thought experiments and the challenges of radical skepticism. 3. **Defending Knowledge** How do we counter the assertion that knowledge is impossible? This module stands out by offering responses to radical skepticism and discusses the contributions of influential philosophers such as Ludwig Wittgenstein. By the end of this section, students will have tools to articulate their understanding of knowledge in a world rife with uncertainty. 4. **Skepticism as a Way of Life** The course culminates in a philosophical perspective on how skepticism informs "the good life." By engaging with Aristotle's views on virtue and knowledge, learners will appreciate the moral dimensions of skepticism and how intellectual virtues can be nurtured through a moderate skeptical approach. #### Final Thoughts The "Skepticism" course on Coursera offers a rich tapestry of thought-provoking content, perfect for anyone interested in philosophy, critical thinking, or contemporary socio-political issues. Each module builds upon the last, encouraging a coherent understanding of skepticism that is at once academically rigorous and relevant to modern dilemmas. ### Recommendation I wholeheartedly recommend this course for anyone looking to refine their analytical skills and develop a balanced perspective on skepticism. Whether you are a student of philosophy or simply a curious individual seeking greater clarity in an uncertain world, this course will guide you through the intricacies of doubt and knowledge. It empowers participants to think critically, question assumptions, and engage thoughtfully in public discourse—a skill set that is invaluable in today’s society. Enroll in "Skepticism" today and embark on a journey that will fundamentally reshape your views on knowledge, truth, and the importance of inquiry in our lives.

Syllabus

What is Skepticism?

We will begin this course by exploring the nature of Skepticism through an investigation of foundational concepts of truth and knowledge. We'll also discuss how current issues in public debate (climate change denial, fake news etc) trade on Skepticism; but how a moderate skepticism can also be a force for good.

How does one know that we are not a Brain-in-a-Vat? And how can we know that we are or are not? In this module will explore what kinds of things can, and cannot, motivate skeptical doubt. We will also review the radical skeptical hypotheses, and why we can’t rule it out. We'll conclude by discussing the radical skeptical paradox.

So how does one respond to radical skepticism? In this module we will discuss strategies for responding to the idea that knowledge is impossible. We will also examine the contributions of the Austrian philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein on the possibility of global rational evaluation.

What does Skepticism have to do with "the good life"? In this module we will learn from Aristotle, an Ancient philosopher that believed that the good life is a life of virtue. We will explore how intellectual vices and virtues go hand-in-hand with moderate Skepticism.