How did the rediscovery of Sextus Empiricus’s writings influence Renaissance and early modern philosophy?

The rediscovery and 1562 publication of Sextus Empiricus’s Outlines of Pyrrhonism acted as a catalyst for a "skeptical crisis" that profoundly shaped Renaissance and early modern philosophy. By providing a comprehensive account of ancient Skepticism—specifically the practice of epochē (suspension of judgment)—these texts challenged the dogmatic certainty of the era.12345

The influence of these writings was widespread:

• French Philosophy: The skepticism of Michel de Montaigne and his followers was deeply rooted in Sextus’s arguments, which were used to undermine both scientific and religious dogmatism.26
• Cartesian Response: René Descartes developed his method of doubt specifically to refute this new skepticism, attempting to establish a foundation of indubitable truth through the cogito.6
• Scientific and Religious Debate: While some thinkers used skeptical arguments to challenge the "new science," others, such as Pierre Gassendi and Marin Mersenne, developed "constructive skepticisms" that accepted epistemological doubt while recognizing the practical utility of scientific inquiry.6
• Enlightenment Foundations: Pierre Bayle’s later use of these skeptical arguments to expose contradictions in all philosophical and theological systems provided the "arsenal of the Enlightenment".6