What is Philosophy?

Philosophy is the study of the most basic moral, legal, aesthetic, religious, and metaphysical ideas by which we understand ourselves and our universe. It is a reasoned pursuit of fundamental truths, a quest for understanding, a study of principles of conduct. It seeks to establish standards of evidence, to provide rational methods of resolving conflicts, to create techniques for evaluating ideas and arguments, and to study the very idea and value of reason itself. Philosophy develops the capacity to see the world from the perspective of other individuals and other cultures; it enhances one's ability to perceive the relationships among the various fields of study; and it deepens one's sense of the meaning and varieties of human experience.

Philosophy is an ideal study for those who are serious about developing their intellectual capabilities and their awareness of themselves and the world. It can help a person achieve a number of important intellectual and personal goals. It helps the student develop the ability to reason clearly, to distinguish between good and bad arguments, to think through complicated questions, and to use reason in situations that are often governed by emotions. It can help you deal intelligently with such perplexing questions as "What is a person?" "What is the goal and destiny of human life?" "Should I obey the laws of my society; and if so, why?" "Can we ever be sure of any of our beliefs?" and "Is there a God?" It expands a person's ability to see beyond the world as it is and to develop a vision of how things might be. It introduces students to their cultural heritage through the works of such great thinkers as Plato, Aristotle, Aquinas, Descartes, Locke, Kant, Marx, etc., and it can make them aware of the extent to which scientists, artists, poets, statesmen, educators and theologians have been influenced by the work of philosophers.

Philosophy broadens the range of things one can understand and enjoy. It can give one self-knowledge, foresight, and a sense of direction in life. It can provide special pleasures of insight to one's reading and conversation. It can lead to self-discovery, expansion of consciousness, and self-renewal. Through all of this, and through its contribution to one's expressive powers, it nurtures individuality and self-esteem. Its value for one's private life can be incalculable; its benefits in one's public life as a citizen can be immeasurable.