Welcome

Philosophy is unique both in its methods and in the nature and breadth of its subject matter. Philosophy treats questions touching every dimension of human life, and its techniques apply to problems in any field of study or endeavor. Philosophy is, among other things, an inquiry into the existence of fundamental truths, a quest for clarity, and a study of principles of conduct. Philosophy encourages the systematic questioning of one's most deeply held beliefs, enhances one's ability to perceive the relationships among the various other fields of study, and deepens one's sense of the meaning of human experience.

What kinds of questions do philosophers ask? Consider democracy. What is it? What justifies it as a system of government? Can a democracy allow the people to vote away their own rights? How is democracy related to political liberty? Now consider human knowledge. What is its nature and extent? Must we always have evidence in order to know? What can we know about the thoughts and feelings of others, or about the future? What kind of knowledge, if any, is fundamental? Philosophical questions arise concerning art, morality, religion, science, and each of the other major areas of human activity and concern. Philosophy explores these questions both singly, in a narrowly focused way, and jointly, as they relate to each other and to human existence generally.

- Adapted from "Philosophy: A Brief Guide for Undergraduates", American Philosophical Association