Comments on: Skeptical About Skepticism

By: Stan Yoder

Stan Yoder — Wed, 14 Feb 2007 16:42:33 +0000

According to the article a critical thinker would ask “why?” and a skeptic, apparently, would not. Is there so much difference between what a skeptic might say first (e.g., “I question that, because…”) and “why do you hold that belief?” Admittedly the “why?” is more open-ended, but a skeptic has presumably logical reasons for questioning something illogical. Being curious why someone holds to illogic isn’t necessarily critical thinking unless it then leads to “I question that, because…” and a discussion ensues.

In my experience, dogmatism and blind faith usually hold hands on the same end of the spectrum, opposite from critical thinking.

By: Stephen Shapiro

Stephen Shapiro — Mon, 12 Feb 2007 14:09:33 +0000

Dave, Your business partner was right. It was interesting how the skeptics at the conference thought conspiracy theorists were crazy. Yet, these theorists are also skeptics, wanting proof. Like I said, for the most part, the conference was excellent and I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in expanding their mind.

Theresa,Thanks for the kind words and for sharing your updated theme. It’s interesting how the words “integrated” and “integrity” are from similar origins, yet they are rarely used to mean the same thing. I love the concept of congruence. Although this is so hard for many to achieve, it may be one of the most important keys to success and happiness. Thanks!

By: Theresa Frasch

Theresa Frasch — Sun, 11 Feb 2007 17:13:33 +0000

This was a great post Stephen. I liked your definitions and suggestions. I have been reading The Speed of Trust by Stephen MR Covey (the son of 7 Habits Stephen Covey). Here are some quotes from his book:

(Ask yourself,)
“Am I open to the possibility of learning new truths that may cause me to rethink issues or even redefine my values?”

“Openness is vital to integrity. It takes both humility and courage – humility to acknowledge that there are principles out there you may not currently be aware of, and courage to follow them once you discover them.”

I adopted my Theme for 2007 after being influenced by the strength of his words.

“Be Integrated – I have integrity. I walk my talk. I am congruent inside and out. I have the courage to act in accordance with my values and beliefs. I am honest, not only telling the truth, but also leaving the right impression.

I genuinely try to be honest in my interactions with others. I am open to the possibility of learning new truths that may cause me to rethink issues or even redefine my values.”

Thanks for the thought-provoking post.

By: Dave Carlson

Dave Carlson — Fri, 09 Feb 2007 03:16:45 +0000

A business partner of mine once told me that “skepticism is the inability to reason well”, and I think that ultimately differentiates skepticism from critical thinking.

The conference seems very interesting, though. I think everyone has to base their beliefs around something, so it would be interesting to understand the basic assumptions and “truths” accepted by these otherwise highly skeptical people.