skeptic

This term describes an individual who maintains a posture of doubt, often requiring empirical evidence before accepting a claim as truth. It carries a connotation of intellectual rigor and critical thinking, though in certain contexts, it can imply a stubborn refusal to believe. As a countable noun, it follows standard English pluralization rules. It is distinct from a cynic, who generally believes people are motivated by selfishness, whereas a skeptic focuses on the validity of the evidence provided.