Greetings

Philosophy begins with the question “Why?” (qua de causa). Why does the world exist, and why do I exist? The attempt to discover the causes (aitia) and principles (arche) of the universe and human life marked the beginning of ancient Western philosophy. While the phenomena of the world seem to unfold naturally and consistently, philosophers without exception raise the fundamental question of “why.” For this reason, philosophical wisdom (sophia) has long been described as “the discipline that seeks causes” (aitiologia). Yet, answering the question of “why” is far from simple.

Human beings have sought to explain their origins, the principles of life, and the harmony of the world through mythos and religio. The conceptual intuitions that emerged in the uncritical age of myth and religion continue to reside in philosophical concepts, maintaining their legacy. In this sense, a lover of myth could, in some way, be considered a philosopher. Yet from the methodological perspective—of questioning, reasoning, proving, and grounding—philosophy (logos) is distinguished from myth (mythos).

To engage in philosophy is to reflect independently, to savor what one believes to be true, to test and to demonstrate it—an activity that demands freedom and intellectual maturity. Of course, whether philosophical reason itself can truly be regarded as rational is another matter, for the human mind far surpasses philosophical knowledge. From the standpoint of the pursuit of wisdom, philosophy embraces not only reason but also myth and religion. Enlightenment science sought to distance itself from myth, but as Aristotle affirmed, myth and religion in their own way “philosophize.”

Thus, philosophy requires both a clear and rigorous intellect as well as a passionate and earnest heart. Systematic study, such as logic, is indispensable, but so too are the moments of poetic inspiration that move us to tears. Philosophy demands both a longing for an ideal society and a critical analysis of the troubled realities of our own. It grows from diligent study, from the ink of books and the sweat of effort, whether in libraries or open-air cafés, in dialogue with professors and fellow students. To those who love philosophical wisdom: read widely, feel deeply, and share your thoughts freely with your peers. In doing so, you are already walking the path of Socrates. We warmly invite you to the beautiful garden of philosophy. With the passionate heart of philosophy, we welcome you.