Philosophy is the study of fundamental problems about the nature of knowledge and reality, and about our moral and political ideas. In universities it is studied in a way that lays considerable emphasis on very precise and careful argument. Although undergraduates in Cambridge read a wide range of philosophical authors, the main aim is for students to acquire the kind of skill in reasoning which will enable them to tackle problems of a philosophical character and to think intelligently about abstract questions.

Three Cambridge scholars, Bertrand Russell, G E Moore and Ludwig Wittgenstein, transformed the discipline of philosophy in the early twentieth century and made Cambridge the most important centre for philosophy in the English-speaking world. Along with Frank Ramsey and others, they developed the analytic style of philosophy now prominent throughout much of the world. Today, Cambridge remains one of the best places to get a grounding in analytic philosophy and our course is one of the few in which it is possible to concentrate entirely on philosophy without taking any other subject (although you can diversify within the subject if you wish).

It is not expected that students have formally studied any Philosophy before reading the subject at Cambridge. If you enjoy marshalling arguments, puzzle–solving of various kinds, and subjects that emphasise rigorous thought, then you might well find that Philosophy is the subject for you. To get a real feel for the character of the subject, you need to read some Philosophy, and the Faculty of Philosophy have produced a suggested reading list providing a good introduction to various aspects of the subject.

Philosophy at Cambridge can be studied as a full three year degree, or for one or two years in combination with other subjects. It combines well with a variety of other tripos including (but not only) Linguistics and HSPS. Students with A Levels (or equivalent) in either Arts or Science subjects are equally acceptable.