A reflective skeptic is defined as someone who

• A. avoids critical thinking
• B. always accepts new ideas without question
• C. writes essays only
• D. does not accept theory for fact; challenges

Answer: (D)

Reflective skepticism centers on evaluating claims with evidence, not taking statements at face value. A reflective skeptic questions assumptions, checks the reliability of sources, and seeks supporting data before accepting something as true. This mindset is exactly what the option describes: someone who does not accept theory as fact and who challenges ideas by testing them against evidence and logic. They distinguish between a proposed theory and established facts, and they remain open to revision if new evidence disproves a claim. The other options describe attitudes that would undermine reflective skepticism: avoiding critical thinking, accepting ideas without question, or limiting discourse to a narrow activity like writing essays. None of those capture the ongoing doubt and demand for justification that defines a reflective skeptic.