Academica

Name: Academica
Author: Marcus Tullius Cicero

By Marcus Tullius Cicero

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About This Book

A series of dialogues examines Academic skepticism and the limits of human knowledge, weighing rival positions on certainty, probability, and assent while critiquing Stoic and Epicurean claims. The text combines philosophical argument, rhetorical analysis, and citations to investigate how much can be known, when probabilistic judgment is acceptable, and how to proceed intellectually under doubt. Its structure alternates argumentative exchanges with interpretive commentary, distinguishing subtle epistemological concepts and guiding readers through ancient debates about truth, evidence, and philosophical method.

About the Author

Marcus Tullius Cicero

Marcus Tullius Cicero (106-43 BCE) was a Roman statesman, orator, and philosopher whose works have significantly influenced Western thought. Known for his mastery of rhetoric, Cicero's writings cover a range of topics including philosophy, politics, and ethics. His notable works include "Academica," which explores the nature of knowledge, and "De Officiis," a treatise on moral duties. Cicero's letters, particularly those to his friend Atticus, provide valuable insights into the political landscape of the late Roman Republic. His speeches, such as those against Catilina, showcase his skills as a public speaker and advocate for the Republic.