Request Tutoring Info
Please enter name
Please enter email
Please enter phone
Please enter details
CRANSTON Philosophy tutors

Book Top-Rated Philosophy Tutors Near Me In CRANSTON, RI

Our CRANSTON Philosophy tutors are top college students and graduates from local area universities. They have an average GPA of 3.5 or higher in their areas of tutoring specialization. At Frog Tutoring, we work with students in all grade levels and our CRANSTON private Philosophy tutors provide customized one on one in-home tutoring through our proven three step approach to academic success.

1.Bring student up to speed by reviewing past work to ensure they are not missing any important concepts that might affect their abilities to learn future lessons. 2. Keep student ahead of the class by using the teachers lesson plan, textbook, and online curriculum to cover lessons before it is taught in class. 2. Reinforce key concepts they might have missed. This ensures they will never be behind again. Your tutor will also help with organization, study skills, and note taking strategies.
Your CRANSTON area Philosophy tutor will also track student progress through detailed session reports which will be available to you at the end of each tutoring session. If it is okay with you, your tutor will contact your child's teacher, for K-12, to get a more detailed understanding of what they are struggling with and also to make sure that he/she and the teacher are both on the same page in their approach to tackling the problem.

Browse our list of qualified Philosophy tutors below. If you are in need of an Philosophy tutor in CRANSTON, please call us or simply go to the tab above and Request a Tutor and let us help provide the understanding and assistance needed for success.

Read more... Read less
cnn cbs boston miami fox news

List of High-Achieving Philosophy Tutors Near Me In CRANSTON, RI For In-Person & Online Tutoring


How it works

tutors, tutoring, tutoring service, tutoring services, homework help, private tutors, home tutors

Request any tutor by submitting a form

tutors, tutoring, tutoring service, tutoring services, homework help, private tutors, home tutors

Speak with our enrollment advisor to get your questions answered

tutors, tutoring, tutoring service, tutoring services, homework help, private tutors, home tutors

Get connected with your private in-person or online tutor

Our Students and Parents Love Us
as Much as We Love Them

">
TA
Knowledge
Presentation

Alex has thoroughly enjoyed the sessions and found them to be very helpful. I am really happy with the feedback and the communication. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend.

">
JY
Knowledge
Presentation

Rosemary was super helpful going over some of the concepts that were tricky, and helped explain the content well.

">
HM
Knowledge
Presentation

Super helpful and willing to adjust to my learning habits. I really enjoy our time working together as the preparation from her end is very noticeable and appreciated.

">
LC
Knowledge
Presentation

Great tutoring session!

">
JC
Knowledge
Presentation

Sarah is our 5th tutor we have used on Frog tutoring. In just one short month of tutoring my child with ADHD, she has improved his math grade from a C to an A-!! We are so happy for the progress our child has made with Sarah’s help, and we will definitely continue to use her as our child’s...

">
JL
Knowledge
Presentation

{not commented yet}The sessions are going well and I am understanding the material . The information is clear , which I love.

">
RG
Knowledge
Presentation

Overall, AJ was absolutely amazing. I didn’t understand almost anything in physics and he made it seem like elementary grade stuff, overall was amazing and I will miss him

">
KB
Knowledge
Presentation

Ali is an amazing tutor always willing to help me on my school assignments and is a very down-to-earth person.

">
JD
Knowledge
Presentation

good tutor

">
KB
Knowledge
Presentation

Looking forward to meeting you.

">
AN
Knowledge
Presentation

Joyce has been great in helping me review topics for the NCLEX

">
SM
Knowledge
Presentation

Ryan in very knowledgeable on the topics I was needing help with. He is professional and works around your schedule. The best tutor I have had on frog tutoring.

">
RW
Knowledge
Presentation

Good tutor

">
RW
Knowledge
Presentation

Never partnered so unable to rate accurately but frog tutors are great so why not give a 5

">
OS
Knowledge
Presentation

patient and knowledgeable

">
Dm
Knowledge
Presentation

{not commented yet}Hayeon Lee is fantastic !
Very knowledgeable and wonderful to work with.
She is kind and is very easy to learn from.
Thank you for finding her.
We have another session Tuesday but I have to reschedule
Perhaps Wednesday?

">
DY
Knowledge
Presentation

Very encouraging and funny. He makes learning fun and teaches in a very simple, easy way to understand.

">
MP
Knowledge
Presentation

Pamela is wonderful! She's the perfect fit for my son! She's very engaging and makes tutoring fun for him

">
HB
Knowledge
Presentation

{not commented yet}
Vince is very happy with this tutor.

">
RF
Knowledge
Presentation

{not commented yet}Jaelynn Cafourek's accomplished computer skills and college training make her a very valuable asset to those who need a professional with their studies.I highly recommend her and her excellent attitude, and clear ability to connect with others and their specific learning...

">
JS
Knowledge
Presentation

Carolle is an excellent tutor. She explains things well, sends me frequent reminders of what I learned during the week, and is altogether a pleasure

">
DR
Knowledge
Presentation

Jeff was extremely knowledgeable and helpful. Deep industry knowledge in running in investment firm and very solid resource. Thank you!

">
MV
Knowledge
Presentation

{not commented yet}
Joyce is very knowledgeable and helpful.

">
TS
Knowledge
Presentation

A very smart individual, has great knowledge to cover the stuff needed based off your preference.

">
RF
Knowledge
Presentation

{not commented yet}Craig has been a big help with helping me learn how to use the internet, navigate a job search and I have learned quite a bit in a shot time.

">
DY
Knowledge
Presentation

Makes learing fun!

">
OT
Knowledge
Presentation

Matthew and I concentrated on financial statements in my CFA Level 1 curriculum. He was extremely knowledgeable and, with his own industry experience, he was very effective at providing real-life examples that made it easier to understand the concepts.

">
Ma
Knowledge
Presentation

He is a great tutor. He knows the topics very well and explains them easily. My only complaint is that his handwriting is somewhat messy. All in all, he is a great SAT tutor for English and math.

">
MB
Knowledge
Presentation

Awesome! he and my son work great together! My Son won't work with anyone else.

">
IB
Knowledge
Presentation

Gurleen is AMAZING!!!!!! She is the best tutor you will find on here. She is very knowledgeable on chemistry and will help you work through so many problems despite them being very challenging. Gurleen helps with retaining the knowledge and provides notes and practice problems as well. if you need...

">
RH
Knowledge
Presentation

Dana is very knwoedgable, especially with anatomy. I was a earning around an 80-84 percent(C) in my medical program exams. With Dana's assistance and vast knowledge in this subject I have passed a written exam AND a practical with a 92(A)!!! Dana positively encourages/challenges her students...

">
LC
Knowledge
Presentation

Sunita Woodcheke has not only demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to my child's academic progress but has also exhibited remarkable patience, enthusiasm, and expertise in their teaching approach. Through personalized lessons and tailored guidance Sunita has fostered a supportive learning...

">
SM
Knowledge
Presentation

Kevin is knowledgeable about math, and he knows how to teach. I’m very rusty on my skills, but he’s been nothing but patient with me. He absorbs my weaknesses and focuses on what I need help with. I appreciate all he’s done so far.

">
TG
Knowledge
Presentation

McKenna has done a great job of working with my daughter on geometry.

">
TM
Knowledge
Presentation

school rating and grades improved.

">
NC
Knowledge
Presentation

I am so happy with this tutoring, my son is engaged all the time. He loves to work in the computer and the activities that they do during the tutoring. She used many different way and form in order to keep him engaged.

">
EC
Knowledge
Presentation

Annie is great!!!!

">
EC
Knowledge
Presentation

Madi is fantastic!!

">
NT
Knowledge
Presentation

I don't sit next to my 9yo during sessions, and this is the first time I ever used a tutor. I can tell you that using a tutor eliminates all the fighting and whining from my kid about doing homework which makes me very happy. They get a lot done during an hour. The tutor is focused, prepared,...

">
PM
Knowledge
Presentation

Fabulous. Olivia is engaging, knowledgeable, and a delight to work with. Highly recommend. Always punctual. Always reliable. Always helpful. Competent with both homework help and direct instruction.

">
CH
Knowledge
Presentation

Extremely knowledgeable and gave direct examples of certain concepts I had trouble with. He also helped assess some of the specific terminology that I need to look for on the exam.

">
TG
Knowledge
Presentation

Chigbo explains concepts in a way that makes it easy to understand. My daughter's understanding and confidence had a real boost in just two days.

">
JE
Knowledge
Presentation

Matthew was very knowledgable in the CFP topics and is very flexible with his ability to review materials and go through the questioning.

">
KK
Knowledge
Presentation

Ivan is absolutely amazing with his knowledge, He is my tutor for college level pre-calculus and I can confidently say that I would not be able to get through my class without ivans help with the class material. He has great patience and will explain and walk you through each problem until you need...

">
AC
Knowledge
Presentation

Very encouraging and goes at a good pace which has been immensely beneficial. Very punctual, there's never been any issues with scheduling. Overall, I have been enjoying my sessions and I look forward to more as he helps me prepare for my ACT.

">
CP
Knowledge
Presentation

Taitana Has tutored my daughter in math and english, she has my daughter think differently in problem solving and expanded her vocabulary. She never gives you the answer but helps you solve a problem together for my daughter to understand why the problem or word is not correct. Will request her...

">
NB
Knowledge
Presentation

So far so good

">
ER
Knowledge
Presentation

Very encouraging, and I enjoy working with her

">
CO
Knowledge
Presentation

My son has been with Barjeana for a few sessions now and loves her! She is so knowledgeable and patient. Best of all she makes the sessions fun and interactive. He struggles with focus, but she keeps him engaged in the session and on track. He looks forward to his tutoring with Ms. Barjeana. ...

">
IB
Knowledge
Presentation

He was great and very knowledgeable on the subject of chemistry, however there was a language barrier

Qualification and Certification of Philosophy Tutors Near Me In CRANSTON, RI


  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor degree holders
  • Master degree holders
  • Ph.D. holders
  • Teaching Certification
  • Professional Certificate
  • Background checks
  • Tutoring experience
  • Continuous education
  • FrogTutoring verification certification

CRANSTON, RI Philosophy Tutoring Rates


  • Price range from $37/hr - $65/hr
  • Rates vary based on the type of tutoring, methods used, and the number of hours required.
  • Contact our enrollment team to receive your personalized rate.

Tutoring Methods of Our Private Tutors In CRANSTON, RI


  • In-person/in-home tutoring
  • Online tutoring
  • One-on-one tutoring
  • Group lessons tutoring.

Tools We Use For Online Philosophy Tutoring


  • Zoom
  • FrogTutoring custom online tutoring platform
  • The Lesson space

Our Philosophy Clientele In CRANSTON, RI


  • High school students
  • Middle school students
  • College students
  • Adults
  • Special needs students

Tutoring Locations For Philosophy In CRANSTON, RI


  • Student homes
  • Public Libraries
  • CRANSTON neighborhoods and suburbs

Sign up now for our one-on-one private Philosophy tutoring in CRANSTON, RI


CRANSTON, RI Tutoring FAQ

What are the best tutoring services available in Cranston, RI?

In Cranston, RI, students and parents looking for top-notch tutoring services can consider local educators, online platforms, and professional services like Frog Tutoring. Frog Tutoring offers personalized, one-on-one sessions with qualified tutors in various subjects, catering to the individual learning style and pace of each student to maximize their academic potential.

How do I find a qualified tutor for math in Cranston, RI?

To find a qualified math tutor in Cranston, RI, consider searching for local tutors with strong educational backgrounds and experience in teaching math. A reliable service like Frog Tutoring provides access to a roster of proficient math tutors who specialize in different areas, from basic arithmetic to advanced calculus, ensuring students receive expert help tailored to their specific needs.

Are there any affordable tutoring options in Cranston, RI?

Affordable tutoring options in Cranston, RI, can be found through community programs, school tutoring clubs, or by using services like Frog Tutoring, which offers competitive rates and flexible payment plans to accommodate different budgets. Frog Tutoring also occasionally provides promotions and discounts, making high-quality education support more accessible to all.

What subjects do tutors in Cranston, RI specialize in?

Tutors in Cranston, RI, offer expertise in a wide range of subjects including mathematics, science, English, foreign languages, and test preparation. Frog Tutoring boasts a diverse team of tutors who specialize in these areas and more, ensuring that no matter what subject a student needs help with, they can be matched with a tutor who has the requisite knowledge and teaching skills.

Can I find a tutor for SAT preparation in Cranston, RI?

Yes, students looking for SAT preparation can find specialized tutors in Cranston, RI. Services like Frog Tutoring offer tailored SAT prep programs with experienced tutors who provide personalized strategies, practice tests, and guidance to help students improve their scores and confidence when taking the exam.

Is in-person or online tutoring better for students in Cranston, RI?

The choice between in-person and online tutoring for students in Cranston, RI depends on individual learning preferences. Frog Tutoring provides both options, giving flexibility to choose the format that best suits the student's schedule, learning style, and comfort level. Both methods deliver effective tutoring experiences with access to qualified tutors.

Philosophy FAQ

What does philosophy tutoring involve?

Philosophy tutoring typically involves one-on-one sessions where a tutor helps students understand complex philosophical concepts, theories, and arguments. It can include discussions on a wide range of topics from ethics and logic to metaphysics and epistemology. Tutors often assist with critical thinking, essay writing, and preparation for exams in philosophy courses.

How can I find a qualified philosophy tutor?

To find a qualified philosophy tutor, you can search online tutoring platforms, university tutoring centers, or educational forums. Look for individuals with advanced degrees in philosophy or who have a proven track record of teaching or tutoring in the subject. Checking reviews and asking for referrals can also help you find a tutor who fits your academic needs.

What are the benefits of philosophy tutoring for students?

Philosophy tutoring benefits students by enhancing their critical thinking, improving their ability to construct coherent arguments, and fostering a deeper understanding of philosophical texts and ideas. It can also provide personalized feedback, help clarify difficult concepts, and improve academic performance in philosophy courses.

Can philosophy tutoring help with writing philosophical essays?

Yes, philosophy tutoring can be extremely beneficial for writing philosophical essays as tutors can guide students in developing clear arguments, engaging with philosophical texts, and structuring essays effectively. Tutors can also provide feedback on drafts and help students hone their writing skills to accurately convey complex ideas.

Is online philosophy tutoring as effective as in-person tutoring?

Online philosophy tutoring can be just as effective as in-person tutoring, especially when interactive tools and video conferencing are utilized. It offers greater flexibility and convenience. The effectiveness largely depends on the quality of the tutor and the student's engagement in the learning process.

Common Questions on Philosophy Tutors

What qualifications do Philosophy tutors from FrogTutoring have?

Philosophy tutors from FrogTutoring are highly qualified individuals, often with advanced degrees in Philosophy or related fields. They possess in-depth knowledge of various philosophical concepts and have experience in teaching or tutoring students at different educational levels. FrogTutoring ensures that each tutor is vetted for their expertise and ability to help learners grasp complex philosophical theories and ideas. To find the perfect Philosophy tutor tailored to your needs, click here to request a tutor or learn more about our services.

How can a Philosophy tutor from FrogTutoring help improve my understanding of philosophical concepts?

A Philosophy tutor from FrogTutoring offers personalized instruction that focuses on your specific learning needs and goals. They can help clarify challenging concepts, provide insight into philosophical arguments, assist with essay writing and critical thinking skills, and prepare you for exams. With one-on-one guidance, you can deepen your understanding of Philosophy at your own pace. For tailored help from a skilled Philosophy tutor, click here to request a tutor or learn more about our services.

What topics in Philosophy can tutors from FrogTutoring help me with?

Tutors from FrogTutoring cover a wide range of Philosophy topics, including ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, logic, political philosophy, and the history of philosophy. Whatever your area of interest or coursework demands, FrogTutoring has tutors who can guide you through the material and enhance your understanding. If you're seeking assistance with specific philosophical topics, click here to request a tutor or learn more about our services.

Can FrogTutoring Philosophy tutors help me prepare for college-level Philosophy exams?

Absolutely! Whether you're facing midterms, finals, or any other college-level Philosophy exams, tutors at FrogTutoring are equipped to help you review key concepts, theories, and critical thinking skills necessary for success. They can provide practice exams, feedback, and strategies for effective studying and exam-taking. To get started with a Philosophy tutor who can help you excel in your college exams, click here to request a tutor or learn more about our services.

How flexible are the tutoring sessions with FrogTutoring Philosophy tutors?

FrogTutoring offers flexible tutoring sessions that can be scheduled to fit your individual needs and availability. Tutors can meet with you online or in person, depending on your location, and can tailor the frequency and duration of sessions to suit your study habits and goals. For convenient and customized tutoring solutions in Philosophy, click here to request a tutor or learn more about our services.

CRANSTON, RI Neighborhoods We Service

Cranston, Rhode Island's third-largest city, boasts a rich tapestry of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. From the picturesque coastlines to the city's lush green parks and historic enclaves, Cranston offers a diverse array of areas for residents and visitors to explore. Here, we'll venture through the neighborhoods that make up this vibrant city.

In the northernmost part of the city, you’ll find the residential neighborhood of Auburn, which is known for its historic homes and active community association. The Eden Park area, with its blend of residential and commercial properties, is another well-established neighborhood.

Forest Hills is one of Cranston's most desirable neighborhoods, appreciated for its quiet streets and beautiful homes. It seamlessly combines the tranquility of suburban life with the convenience of city amenities. Nearby Dean Estates is known for its upscale homes and proximity to the Garden City Shopping Center, a hub of retail and dining.

Garden City itself is a notable neighborhood, recognized for its open-air shopping center that dates back to the 1940s. It remains a go-to destination for shopping, dining, and community events.

Oaklawn, situated in the western part of Cranston, strikes a balance between residential areas and commercial developments. It's close to the city’s western border with Warwick.

Traveling south, you reach Knightsville, a neighborhood with a strong sense of community and an array of Italian-American heritage and cuisine. You can feel the rich culture permeating through its annual St. Mary's Feast, a tradition that has been celebrated for over a century.

Adjacent to Knightsville is Meshanticut, a serene area with a scenic park of the same name, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and the picturesque Meshanticut Lake, a favorite for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Western Cranston is characterized by newer developments, sprawling green spaces, and prestigious golf courses, creating an upscale suburban experience. This area is touted for its beautiful landscapes and rural charm, despite being in a city.

The Pawtuxet Village area, which straddles the line between Cranston and Warwick, is a historic gem with its waterfront views, quaint shops, and eateries that line the Pawtuxet River. This village is one of the oldest in New England and is the site of the Gaspee Days Parade, commemorating an early event leading to the American Revolution.

In the city's central region lies Rolfe Square, a hub for entertainment and dining, imbued with local history and community activities. Nearby, Stadium, named after the historic Cranston Stadium, is another well-established neighborhood with a mix of residential types.

Laurel Hill reflects Cranston's working-class roots with a mix of single-family homes and modest apartment buildings. It’s a tightly knit community with a strong sense of local pride.

Lastly, Fiskeville or Howard, on the border with Scituate, showcases a more rural aspect of Cranston with its quiet country setting. While less dense, it still offers the convenience of nearby commercial facilities and easy access to the city’s core.

Each neighborhood in Cranston, RI, presents a unique side to the city's mosaic, from the bustling retail centers to the waterfront allure, from historical enclaves to sprawling suburbs. For families, professionals, and retirees alike, the city's neighborhoods offer a wealth of experiences and an invitation to be part of Cranston's vibrant community.

About CRANSTON, RI And It’s Education Institutions

Cranston, Rhode Island, is a city steeped in history and charm, appreciated for its balance of suburban and urban living. Founded in 1754 and formerly known as Pawtuxet, this city is now the second largest in the state, boasting a diverse population of over 81,000 residents. Among its many landmarks, the Sprague Mansion stands out as a beacon of its historical wealth, offering a glimpse into the life of one of the area's most prominent families, the Spragues, who were instrumental in the development of the city's textile industry. Other notable landmarks include the Joy Homestead, an authentic example of a late 18th-century farmhouse, and the Budlong Pool, which for a time was the largest outdoor swimming pool in the country.

Education serves as the bedrock of Cranston's commitment to community development. The city takes pride in its educational institutions, boasting a number of top-ranked K-12 schools. Notable public schools include Cranston High School East and Cranston High School West, both recognized for their academic excellence. On the private side, The Cornerstone School is a well-regarded institution imparting quality education to its students. Beyond K-12 education, Cranston does not have its own university, but it benefits from being in close proximity to Providence, which offers a range of higher educational opportunities at institutions such as Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design. However, within the city, Cranston Public Library and the Cranston Area Career and Technical Center are vital educational resources that support lifelong learning and skill development.

The Cranston, RI Independent School District (ISD) is known for its dedication to student achievement and preparation for success in a global society. They offer various programs and services to aid in the educational journey, including Advanced Placement courses, special education, and access to technology. Additionally, the ISD is committed to community engagement, often collaborating with local organizations to improve educational outcomes. As Cranston does not host its own university, students seeking tertiary education often look to nearby institutions in Providence, which is just a short drive away, thus expanding their options for higher education significantly. As Cranston continues to thrive and grow, its emphasis on education, historic preservation, and community development makes it an inviting place for residents and visitors alike.

Students at These CRANSTON, RI Schools Excel with Our Tutoring

The schools listed below are a select sample from the wider educational landscape of Cranston, Rhode Island, encompassing both public and private institutions. This roster represents only a fraction of the many schools in the area whose students have significantly benefited from our comprehensive tutoring services. It's important to note that while this list highlights some of the top schools known for their academic excellence and supportive learning environments, many other schools in Cranston also offer quality education and may have students who have taken advantage of our tutoring programs.

Cranston High School East Cranston High School West Western Hills Middle School Park View Middle School Eden Park Elementary School Glen Hills Elementary School Garden City Elementary School Oak Lawn Elementary School Orchard Farms Elementary School Stone Hill Elementary School Woodridge Elementary School St. Paul School (Private) St. Mary's School (Private) St. Rocco School (Private) Immaculate Conception Catholic Regional School (Private) Trinity Christian Academy (Private) Cranston Area Career and Technical Center (Vocational/Technical School) Hope Highlands Elementary School Arlington Elementary School Dutemple Elementary School

The above institutions represent the dedication to academic achievement inherent in Cranston's educational system. Their websites offer a glimpse into the vibrant academic life and community involvement each school prides itself on. It's through the collaboration with such institutions that our tutoring services strive to enhance the learning outcomes and opportunities for all students we work with.

About Philosophy & Philosophy Tutoring

Philosophy is an academic discipline that seeks to understand fundamental truths about ourselves, the world in which we live, and our relationships to the world and to each other. By asking some of the most profound and abstract questions, philosophy probes the depths of existence, knowledge, morality, reason, and human purpose. At its core, philosophy develops critical thinking, rigorous reasoning, and systematic questioning.

Philosophy is categorized into various branches, with each focusing on different aspects of the philosophical inquiry. Metaphysics investigates the nature of reality and what exists, while epistemology deals with the nature and scope of knowledge and belief. Ethics ponders questions of morality and values, and aesthetics examines the nature of art and beauty. Logic is concerned with the principles of valid reasoning and argument, and political philosophy explores the foundations of community and social institutions.

Related entities to philosophy include religion, science, mathematics, and the arts, as all share a common interest in exploring fundamental aspects of existence and human experience. Moreover, philosophy is deeply interconnected with the development of intellectual and cultural movements and is intrinsic to the self-reflection of humanity.

When tutoring someone who struggles with philosophy, the best strategy is to encourage active engagement with philosophical texts and ideas. This can be achieved by:

  1. Simplifying complex ideas: Break down difficult concepts into manageable parts.
  2. Providing historical context: Knowing the historical and cultural backdrop can enhance understanding.
  3. Encouraging questioning: Prompt students to ask questions and critically reflect on arguments.
  4. Facilitating discussions: Diverse perspectives can illuminate various facets of a philosophical issue.
  5. Personalizing philosophy: Relate philosophical ideas to real-life situations or the student's own experiences.
  6. Promoting active reading: Teach students to annotate texts and summarize arguments to better grasp the material.

The most common concepts in philosophy include the nature of existence (ontology), the structure of reason and logic, the examination of knowledge (epistemology), and ethical dilemmas and constructs. Among the most difficult concepts are those abstract and theoretical ideas related to metaphysics, such as the concept of being, the existence of God, and the problem of free will, as well as dense and nuanced theories of contemporary philosophers who have complex writing styles or who employ significant technical jargon.

To master these challenging areas, students should practice patience, take incremental steps in their reading and comprehension, and engage in regular discussions with peers or instructors to refine their understanding. Having a philosophical dialogue can allow for the clarification of thoughts and the sharpening of intellectual acuity, which are both essential skills in the study of philosophy.