Pyrrho of Elis
Considered the founder of Pyrrhonian skepticism, advocating for suspension of judgment to achieve tranquility.
Most quoted
"Whoever wants to be happy must consider these three questions: First, what are things like by nature? Second, what attitude should we adopt towards them? Third, what will be the outcome for those who have this attitude?"
— from Via Aristocles of Messene
"Things are equally indifferent, unmeasurable and inarbitrable. Because of this, neither our sensations nor our opinions tell us truths or falsehoods."
— from Via Sextus Empiricus
"Nothing is honorable or base, just or unjust; and likewise, nothing is true or false, but everything is a matter of custom and convention."
— from Sextus Empiricus, Outlines of Pyrrhonism, -300
All quotes by Pyrrho of Elis (152)
The wise man is not disturbed by the opinions of the gods.
We should not seek to prove anything.
The wise man is like a river, flowing without resistance.
There is no good or evil in itself.
The wise man is not disturbed by the suffering of others, because he does not judge it to be bad.
We should not be afraid to admit our ignorance.
The wise man is like an empty vessel, ready to receive whatever comes.
All things are relative to the observer.
The wise man is not disturbed by the praise or blame of others.
We should not seek to find the truth, but to live without disturbance.
Against every statement there is a counter-statement.
Nothing can be known with certainty.
Appearances are all we have; we must live by them.
Suspend judgment on all things.
The goal of life is ataraxia, freedom from disturbance.
Customs differ everywhere; none is truer than another.
I determine nothing; I inquire.
The wise man will not affirm or deny anything.
All things are inapprehensible.
Live according to the laws and customs of your country.
Contemporaries of Pyrrho of Elis
Other Philosophys born within 50 years of Pyrrho of Elis (-360–-270).