Final answer:
Philosophy is hard to define due to its critical approach that encompasses a broad range of topics, seeking to understand the world without preconceived assumptions. It is the process of evaluating beliefs through reason, addressing timeless questions about existence, knowledge, and morality.
Step-by-step explanation:
Defining philosophy is a complex task due to its comprehensive and critical nature. Philosophy seeks the broadest understanding of the world, encompassing various concepts such as nature, consciousness, morality, beauty, and social organizations. Its scope is both broad and deep, making it nearly limitless in its inquiry. By attempting to take as little for granted as possible, philosophy does not adhere to the same foundational assumptions found in other disciplines. This leads to an open-ended approach that can extend into nearly any subject matter. The versatility of philosophy reflects its historical origins and its development across civilizations.
A compelling definition of philosophy might be the most critical and comprehensive thought process utilized by humans, aimed at evaluating and examining beliefs through reason. Philosophers engage with enduring questions about knowledge, justice, the best way of living, free will, and the nature of reality. Philosophy, therefore, is intrinsically about asking questions and critically examining proposed answers.