Latter-day scepticism is fond of calling itself progressive; but scepticism is really reactionary. Scepticism goes back; it attempts to unsettle what has already been settled. Instead of trying to break up new fields with its plough, it simply tries to break up the plough.

Summary

This quote suggests that scepticism, often seen as progressive, is actually a reactionary approach. Rather than pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities, scepticism aims to question and unsettle established ideas and knowledge. Rather than actively contributing to progress and innovation, it attempts to hinder or dismantle the tools and frameworks that have already been successful in understanding the world. The quote portrays scepticism as an opposing force that resists new fields of discovery, highlighting its inclination to challenge traditional beliefs and structures instead.

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