I have to explain what suspension of belief is according to skeptics and how it comes about? I cannot find a reasonable explanation, can someone help me out? Thanks!
I have never heard of it: Suspension of disbelief is quite common, and is well known.
My experience with it is Mary Shelly's Frankenstein, and observing my daughter when reading Anne of Green Gables.
According to Arthur Schopenhauer, "Thus the world must be recognized, from one aspect at least, as akin to a dream, indeed as capable of being put in the same class with a dream."
His idea reflects the 19th century question about the nature of experience. In comparing the views of David Hume, Immanuel Kant, Georg Hegel, and Arthur Schopenhauer, which view of experience seems closest to how you view the world? Briefly explain this philosopher's view as it compares to your view.
Suspension of belief, also known as suspension of disbelief, is a concept often discussed by skeptics in relation to the evaluation of claims, beliefs, and evidence. It refers to the temporary acceptance or withholding of doubt regarding the truth or validity of something, often in the context of storytelling, entertainment, or pseudoscience.
To understand how suspension of belief comes about, it is important to recognize that skeptics approach claims and beliefs with a critical mindset, guided by reason, evidence, and rational thinking. They are cautious about accepting ideas without sufficient evidence or logical reasoning.
In the context of storytelling or entertainment, suspension of belief arises when individuals willingly put aside their skeptical thinking for the sake of enjoying the narrative or experience. For example, when reading a fantasy novel or watching a science-fiction movie, individuals are aware that the events portrayed are fictional or improbable but choose to temporarily believe in them for the sake of enjoyment.
On the other hand, skepticism encourages a questioning and critical approach to claims and beliefs. Skeptics may be hesitant to suspend their disbelief because doing so can make them vulnerable to accepting unsubstantiated or pseudoscientific claims. They strive to distinguish between fact and fiction, relying on reliable evidence, scientific consensus, logical coherence, and established principles.
In summary, skeptics view suspension of belief as a temporary set-aside of skepticism for a specific purpose, such as enjoying fiction or entertainment. They do so while maintaining a critical mindset and an emphasis on evidence-based reasoning in other aspects of life.