1. Questions everything. They don't accept claims or beliefs without rigorous examination and evidence. This includes personal experiences, traditions, authority figures, and even common sense.
2. Seeks evidence. Skeptics demand evidence to support any claim, and they're not satisfied with anecdotal evidence or personal testimonies. They want verifiable, empirical data.
3. Remains open-minded. While skeptical of claims, a true skeptic is willing to change their mind when presented with compelling evidence. They don't hold onto beliefs stubbornly, but rather adjust their views based on new information.
4. Practices critical thinking. They analyze information, identify biases, and evaluate the credibility of sources. This helps them to distinguish between genuine claims and misinformation.
5. Doesn't dismiss things out of hand. They are not cynics who reject everything without a second thought. They are simply cautious and want to be sure before accepting anything as true.
Important to note:
* Skepticism is not cynicism. Cynicism is a negative and pessimistic view of the world, while skepticism is a healthy approach to information.
* Skepticism is not about being negative. It's about seeking truth and being open to change.
In essence, a skeptic is a curious individual who is committed to finding the truth, even if it means challenging conventional wisdom and established beliefs.