Skepticism is one of the three major schools of ancient Greek philosophy - the others being Stoicism and Epicureanism - which, in addition to a way of thinking, proposes a way of life. How to Have an Open Mind is an excellent introduction to its principles, through a modern translation and approach to fundamental concepts from the texts of Sextus, the only Skeptic philosopher whose works have survived. Sextus advocated - and offers specific techniques to achieve it - the avoidance of any judgment about the true nature of things, believing that this is the way to deal with the dogmatism of others, but also to maintain our spiritual and mental tranquility.

As Richard Bett observes in the introduction, the most important lesson we can draw today from Sextus' skepticism is the ability to listen to the opposing view on any issue. In this way, we will acquire an open mind and the ability to engage in dialogue, avoiding bigotry and fanaticism, which are characteristics of our time.