philosophy -
n. (pl. -ies)
1 the use of reason and argument in seeking
truth and
knowledge of reality, esp. of the causes and
nature of things and of the principles governing existence, the material universe, perception of physical phenomena, and human behaviour.
2 a a particular system or set of beliefs reached by this. b a personal rule of life.
3 advanced learning in general (doctor of
philosophy).
4 serenity; calmness; conduct governed by a particular
philosophy.
[ME f. OF filosofie f. L philosophia wisdom f. Gk (as PHILO-, sophos wise)] 
