Explain G.E. Moore's argument against scepticism.

G.E. Moore performs something known as the G.E. Moore shift. This is where he takes the sceptic's Modus Ponens argument: (1) If you can doubt the natural world then you cannot know anything about the natural world (P=>Q) (2) You can doubt the natural world (e.g. because of Descartes' Deamon) (P) (c) You cannot know anything about the natural world (Q) And turns it into a Modes Tollens argument (1) If you can doubt the natural world then you cannot know anything about the natural world (P=>Q) (2) You can know things about the natural world (that Moore has two hands) (~Q) (c) You can't doubt the natural world (~P)

GP
Answered by Gareth P. Philosophy tutor

5591 Views

See similar Philosophy A Level tutors

Related Philosophy A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain how a utilitarian would make a moral decision (5)


Is it true that someone could know all physical facts without knowing what it is like to see red? If so, would physicalism be refuted??


Why Darwinism played an important role in shaping Nietzsche's Overman (Ubermensch)?


How do I structure and write a philosophy essay?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning