Note 32 — Chapter XXII · PYRRHO.

(3) Mental imperturbability. From this state of indecision, Timon, in reply to the third question, argues that mental imperturbability or ἀταραξία proceeds, which can alone conduct to true happiness.32 Men are disturbed by views and prejudices which mislead them into the efforts of passion. Only the Sceptic who has suspended all judgment is in a condition to regard things with absolute calmness, unruffled by passion or desire.33 He knows that it is a fond delusion to suppose that one external condition is preferable to another.34 In reality only the tone of mind or virtue possesses value.35 Thus, by withdrawing within himself, man reaches happiness, which is the goal of all philosophy.36 Absolute inactivity being, however, impossible, the Sceptic will act on probabilities, and hence follow custom;37 but at the same time he will be conscious that such conduct does not rest on a basis of firm conviction.38 The province of uncertain opinion includes all positive judgments respecting good and evil. Only in this conditional form will Timon allow of goodness and divine goodness as standards of conduct.39 The real object of Scepticism is, therefore, a purely negative one—indifference. It cannot even be proved40 that Pyrrho’s School so far accommodated itself to life, as to make moderation rather than indifference the regulating principle for unavoidable actions and desires. In this direction the School seems to have done but little.