Journal für Philosophie / Die Kunst des Zweifelns

Doubt is a constant companion of humanity: In love, we doubt the fidelity of our partners; in traffic, we question the driving skills of others; while shopping, we wonder about the accuracy of the bill; in the climate debate, we doubt the correctness of forecasts and the honesty of politicians. Many lose themselves in the face of numerous uncertainties and unpredictabilities, succumbing to the compulsion to control or even falling into despair. Accordingly, people long for nothing more than ultimate certainties that promise security and stability. However, just as too much and too fundamental doubt can paralyze and lead to despair, an absence of doubt regarding supposed certainties can result in stagnation. Thus, doubt also requires a reasonable measure.