How did skepticism influence the development of epistemology?

Skepticism has been a fundamental driver in the development of epistemology, acting as a catalyst that forces philosophers to rigorously examine, justify, and strengthen their knowledge claims. Throughout history, the struggle between skeptical doubt and dogmatic assertion has shaped the core problems and solutions of Western philosophy.12

Skeptics have historically challenged the reliability of human perception and the validity of rational criteria, arguing that any attempt to justify knowledge leads to an infinite regress or circular reasoning. This persistent questioning has influenced epistemology in several key ways:13

• Refining Foundations: Skepticism forced thinkers like René Descartes to seek indubitable foundations for knowledge, leading to the development of modern epistemological methods such as intuition and deduction.4
• Checking Speculation: By attacking metaphysical and theological claims, skepticism served as a check against rash speculation, eventually leading many contemporary thinkers to abandon the search for absolute, indubitable foundations in favor of naturalistic or scientific approaches.12
• Stimulating Innovation: Each skeptical challenge has prompted creative responses, compelling philosophers to develop new theories to resolve skeptical difficulties.12

Ultimately, while some critics argue that skepticism is self-refuting, its strength lies in its role as a "purge" that undermines dogmatism and demands higher standards of justification for what we claim to know.1