Philosophy is the oldest, broadest, and most fundamental form of inquiry. Some philosophical questions have to do with the understanding of we and whatever else there may be. Others concern the nature of different forms of knowledge and experience. And others have to do with ethical issues and problems of value. The study of philosophy is one of the most important elements in a good liberal education. Philosophical training is also very useful in that it improves one's ability to think clearly and to construct, analyze, and criticize arguments of any kind.
The Department of Philosophy at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers three formal paths of study for undergraduates: a major, a major with distinction, and a minor. A wide variety of classes, several of which satisfy general education requirements, are offered within our department.