On The Value of Scepticism Literary Analysis
On The Value of Scepticism Literary Analysis
On The Value of Scepticism Literary Analysis
Russell also seems sceptic about nature of sin that has no objective reality and perception of
sin that alters with geographical boundaries. Therefore, he acclaims the punishments afflicted
upon sinners as unjustified and attacks the so-called self-righteous moralists who via invention
of Hell take relish to punish the sinners considering it a sacred duty performed with a good
conscience.
Russell points out that nationalism is also one of the zealous opinions that is irrational when
people are preached to develop antagonism towards other countries and hatred towards
other people to ensure national security and avoid wars. Only Quakers agree that this method of
preventing wars is disgraceful and someone who suggests other ways to avoid warfare is dealt
with abusive attitude.
Russell is also seen sceptic about the causes of our actions. Biologically every action is
stimulated by instinct, but action can be due to habit if it is learned and practiced daily or it can
be caused by a belief. Russell maintains that if we are encountered with a decision to make our
action is guided by a belief. Russell also makes a compelling case for the practical benefits of
skepticism. He notes that skepticism can help us to avoid errors and to make better decisions,
and that it can help us to avoid being deceived by false claims and propaganda. By questioning
our assumptions and beliefs, we can gain a clearer and more accurate understanding of the world
around us.
Russell tends to ridicule the English-speaking countries who have accustomed to
“irrationalizing” to pursue their own material and selfish desires by employing lofty phrases
proclaiming their selfless spirit to ensure public good but in fact, they are just justifying their
selfish acts in disguise of rationalizing.
Russell argues that shrewdness belongs more to the unconscious part of our nature. He says
that this shrewdness is the main quality for the success of business. He says it is good from a
business perspective but from the moral perspective it is selfish.
He then taunts the ordinary methods of education which have no effect upon the unconscious,
so that shrewdness cannot be taught by our present technique.
He also suggests that morality cannot be taught by present methods. He thinks that people should
be made shrewd by intellectual means. He then says that he does not know how teach
shrewdness, but he knows to teach them to be rational. By rationality he means a scientific habit
of mind in forecasting the effects of our actions.
Russell establishes that scepticism or rationality shouldn’t govern life in its entirety. There are
certain limits and the extent to which scepticism operate shouldn’t encroach upon affairs of
life such as love, joy, and artistic activity as Leibniz conduct of rationality is disliked by
Russell as it is contrary to his instinct of attraction.
In the end, Russell introduces a new morality which he calls “true morality” in contrast to
conventional morality which is based on the realization that other humans are a help, not a
hindrance. This ideal morality can be achieved if we pursue our own happiness rather than
misery of others. In this way our barren Earth would turn into garden of Eden.
Finally, the essay is well-written and engaging, with clear and concise arguments that are easy
to follow. Russell's prose is lucid, elegant, and persuasive, and his use of examples and
anecdotes helps to bring his arguments to life. Russell often adopts question-answer techniques
to get his readers involved. Occasionally, he becomes personal in order to support an argument.
Sometimes, he makes use of an analogy to emphasize an idea. Nor the touches of humor and
irony lacking in his essay.
Overall, "On the Value of Scepticism" is a thoughtful and thought-provoking essay that
makes a strong case for the importance of skepticism in our lives. Russell's arguments are
convincing, and his emphasis on the positive benefits of skepticism is refreshing and
enlightening. Bertrand Russell's essay remains relevant today due to its insightful discussion of
the importance of skepticism in our lives. In the essay, Russell argues that skepticism is an
essential tool for thinking critically and making informed decisions, and that it is important
to question our assumptions and beliefs.