Scepticism Collection

David Hume, caricature
David Hume. Caricature of the British philosopher and historian David Hume (1711-1776). Hume influenced the development of scepticism and empiricism

John Bull and Lloyd George with the 1909 Budget, 1909 (litho)
KDC397325 John Bull and Lloyd George with the 1909 Budget, 1909 (litho) by Partridge, Bernard John (1861-1945); Private Collection; (add.info)

Punch cartoon: A Logical Refutation of Mr Darwins Theory (engraving)
6034792 Punch cartoon: A Logical Refutation of Mr Darwins Theory (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Punch cartoon)

Punch cartoon: Rudiments of Scepticism and Orthodoxy (engraving)
6034801 Punch cartoon: Rudiments of Scepticism and Orthodoxy (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Punch cartoon: Rudiments of Scepticism and Orthodoxy)

Aerial photography in World War One
A illustrated explanation of the uses of and how aerial photography worked in World War One. Aerial photography was introduced as an additional means of observation

Hume, (1711-1776), 1830. Creator: Unknown
Hume, (1711-1776), 1830. David Hume (1711-1776) Scottish Enlightenment philosopher, historian, economist, and essayist, known for his influential system of philosophical empiricism, scepticism

The Lecture, 1808, (1827). Creator: Thomas Cook
The Lecture, 1808, (1827). A group of Oxford scholars listen to William Fisher, Registrar of the University. Engraving after Scholars at a lecture of 1736 by Hogarth

The Lecture, 1736, (1830s). Creator: Unknown
The Lecture, 1736, (1830s). A group of Oxford scholars listen to William Fisher, Registrar of the University. Facsimile of Scholars at a lecture. [Jones & Co. Finsbury Square, London]

Doubting Thomas, 1634. Artist: Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn
Doubting Thomas, 1634. Picture illustrating episode related in the in St Johns Gospel (Ch20, vs19-29) where the Apostle Thomas puts his hand in the wound in the risen Saviours side as he doubts what

Doubting Thomas, c1268. Artist: T oros Roslin
Doubting Thomas, c1268. The Disciple, Thomas, putting his hand into the lance wound in the side of the risen Jesus to make sure that the Saviour was real

Group of workers discussing retirement at the age of 65 and tax deductions on salary
XIR411558 Group of workers discussing retirement at the age of 65 and tax deductions on salary to fund state pensions, cartoon from L Assiette au Beurre, 8 July, 1902 (colour litho) by Delannoy

David Hume, Scottish philosopher
David Hume (1711-76), Scottish philosopher and historian. Hume was born and educated at Edinburgh. He rejected the idea of causality

Henry Louis Mencken
HENRY LOUIS MENCKEN American journalist and author, noted for his wit and scepticism, and his definitive study of the American language

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"Scepticism: A Journey through Doubt and Inquiry" In the realm of philosophy, David Hume stands as a prominent figure, challenging conventional beliefs with his sceptical inquiries. Like a caricature that exaggerates features to provoke thought, Hume's ideas pushed boundaries and questioned established truths. Stepping into the political arena, John Bull and Lloyd George engaged in a heated debate over the 1909 Budget. This Punch cartoon captures their scepticism towards each other's arguments, highlighting the importance of critical thinking in shaping policies. Another Punch cartoon challenges Charles Darwin's theory with logical refutation. Through this engraving, we witness how even scientific theories are subjected to scrutiny and doubt - an essential aspect of intellectual growth. The rudiments and orthodoxy are explored in yet another captivating Punch cartoon. It reminds us that questioning prevailing norms is crucial for progress while acknowledging the need for balance between skepticism and acceptance. Shifting our focus from philosophical debates to historical events, aerial photography during World War One introduced a new perspective on warfare. These images instilled doubt among military strategists about traditional tactics, leading to innovative approaches on the battlefield. Hume himself remains an enigmatic figure whose portrait from 1830 reflects his contemplative nature. The unknown artist captured his essence as a thinker who challenged existing knowledge fearlessly. Two depictions titled "The Lecture" take us back in time - one from 1808 by Thomas Cook and another from 1736 by an unknown creator. Both capture moments where individuals question what they hear or learn; reminding us that curiosity drives human progress. Artistic renditions like Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn's "Doubting Thomas" (1634) or T oros Roslin's version (c1268) remind us of ancient tales where doubt played its part in seeking truth beyond blind faith. Even humor can serve as a tool for scepticism.