The Academics examines the theory of knowledge: can we know anything with certainty? Cicero presents the arguments of the Academic sceptics and their opponents in dialogue form.
Start ReadingThe Lucullus (Academica Priora, Book 2). Lucullus defends the Antiochean view that certainty is possible. Cicero responds with the Academic sceptic position.
Catulus and his circle discuss the history of the Academy's sceptical turn. The debate between dogmatism and intellectual humility.
Varro presents Antiochus' account of the Old Academy and argues that the sceptical New Academy betrayed its founder's legacy.