I. There is so great a latitude in scepticism, and its gradations are so
different, that according to the various extension that is given to the
meaning of the word, it is used to describe the most extravagant error,
and the most prudent mode of philosophizing. Rigid scepticism is a wild
delirium, moderate is prudent caution. But those who in this age, have
undertaken to combat the moderate sceptics, have either from ignorance
or malice, confounded them with the rigid. When I reflect how gross a
thing ignorance must be in such a case, it makes me think they acted from
malice, and when I consider how detestable a thing malice is, it makes me
conclude what they did was through ignorance.
II. Although the Greek word _scepsis_, from whence sceptic and scepticism
are derived, signifies inquisition, investigation, and speculation,
custom has in a great measure altered the meaning of the term; on
which account, sceptical at this day, implies doubt, or doubting; and
scepticism, that particular avowal which sceptics make of doubting,
or withholding their assent to all matters, that are liable to be
controverted or disputed.
III. This doubt or suspension of assent, may be more or less rational,
in proportion to the greater or less extent that is given to it, or
according to the matters to which it relates. Thus, although doubting of
many things would be prudence, doubting of all would be madness.