Understanding Dependent Origination in the Light of Radical Skepticism
Abstract
Abstract This paper aims to understand dependent origination, a central thesis of the Buddha’s teachings, within the framework of radical skepticism. The conceptual tools developed by the contemporary work on radical skepticism, taken up by philosophers such as Hilary Putnam, James Conant, and Tim Button, enable us to clarify and gain insight into dependent origination, thereby making it possible to achieve a deeper understanding of the interrelations among dependent origination, the act of holding a belief, the world, and right mindfulness—the key practice in the Buddha’s teachings aimed at reducing or ending suffering.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Indian and Buddhist Studies
Epistemology
Ethics
and Metaphysics
Study and Philosophy of Religion
Publication details
- Journal / source
- International Journal for the Study of Skepticism
- Volume
- 16
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 1–34
- Publication date
- 3 March 2026
- Language
- EN