Philosophy has two important aims. First, it tries to give a person a unified view of the universe in which he lives. Second, it seeks to make a person a more critical thinker by sharpening his ability to think clearly and precisely. The American philosopher William James defined philosophy as "an unusually stubborn attempt to think clearly." A philosopher is an ordinary person who thinks more deeply and obstinately than other people. The word philosophy comes from two Greek words, philo and sophia, which together mean love of widsom.

Philosophy has great value in our complicated world. Many persons have no real foundations or sets of beliefs. Philosophy can provide them with a reasoned framework within which to think. By accepting a particular philosophy, a person can begin to seek certain goals and to direct his life's behavior. For example, a Stoic tries to remain master of his emotions. An Epicurian seeks happiness through pleasure. A Rationalist attempts to gain knowledge through reason. A Christian strives for salvation through the grace and teachings of Jesus Christ. Each set of beliefs leads to a particular way of thinking and behaving.

Philosophy also examines the foundations of other studies. It asks the social scientist what he believes to be the nature of man. It asks the physical scientist why he uses the scientific method. Philosophy seeks to organize the results of the various sciences to show the many ways in which they are related.

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