Skepticism isn’t a set of conclusions or beliefs but is instead a method of inquiry — whatever evidence there may be for a claim is able to be revised and clarified, a claim could even be abandoned in the face of better evidence for the contrary. From the beginning there needs to be an open-mindedness, but always anchored by the need for rigorous proof to be initially convinced.

Skepticism also involves understanding epistemology, the origins, nature and extent of knowledge; how we can be deceived by our senses and by bad arguments, which also involves understanding logical fallacies and where they may mislead us. 

Skeptics are aware of the way they can rely on subconscious emotional conclusions, and that this is not an unusual response, as humans are pattern-seeking creatures. It take work and effort to question those conclusions and seek better answers to what may be initially convincing claims. As Nobel prize-winning physicist Richard Feynman said, “The first principle is that you must not fool yourself — and you are the easiest person to fool.”