A Critical Introduction to Skepticism [Hardcover]

Skepticism remains a central and defining issue in epistemology, and in the wider tradition of Western philosophy. To better understand the contemporary position of this important philosophical subject, Allan Hazlett introduces a range of topics, including:

Ancient skepticism
skeptical arguments in the work of Hume and Descartes
Cartesian skepticism in contemporary epistemology
anti-skeptical strategies, including Mooreanism, nonclosure, and contextualism
additional varieties of skepticism
the practical consequences of Cartesian skepticism

Presenting a comprehensive survey of the key problems, arguments, and theories, together with additional readings, A Critical Introduction to Skepticism is an ideal guide for students and scholars looking to understand how skepticism is shaping epistemology today.

Allan Hazlett is Reader in Philosophy at the University of Edinburgh, UK.

This book's great success is owed to the philosophical insight and expository skill of its author, whose mastery is manifest in the depth and breadth attained, with crystal clarity and a light touch that will please readers. Ernest Sosa, Professor of Philosophy, Rutgers, State University of New Jersey, USA

Allan Hazlett's book is the best sort of guide to skepticism: both sympathetic and critical in turns, it is thoroughly grounded in recent historical scholarship and displays a sharp eye for issues in contemporary epistemology. This lucid and engaging presentation of the skeptical tradition-from its origin to its present and possible future-successfully captures what makes skepticism an endless source of philosophical fascination. Baron Reed, Associate Professor of Philosophy, Northwestern University, USA

Marked by a dazzling combination of comprehensiveness, brevity, novelty, clarity, humor, and a refreshing streak of irreverence, Hazlett's introduction to skepticism will make an excellent addition to al“9