Being skeptical means “show me.” Being dismissive means “don’t bother.” Only one of them learns anything.

Both postures involve doubt and they point in opposite directions. Scepticism is an open question that wants evidence and can be satisfied. Dismissal is a closed door using the language of doubt to avoid the work of looking. The second feels sharper and costs nothing, which is why it is so much more common.

Watch which one you are doing when something you distrust turns up. Ask what evidence would change your mind, and if the honest answer is none, you are not being sceptical. Then go and look for that evidence rather than waiting for it to arrive.