ABSTRACT
Philosophy has aspired to present a valid and unified view of what there is that to some significant degree provides an orientation to the life of all individuals and groups. At the same time it is more or less clearly assumed that under the manifold practices of any social group there is a set of beliefs that can be articulated and judged by philosophy. The most desirable state of affairs would be one where those beliefs were all correct and collectively adequate to the situation of the group. They should present a basis for further progress in theory and practice, promoting selfunderstanding and self-fulfilment, in all worthwhile human pursuits. The ideal of a philosophical community was the rightful successor of and superior to universalistic religions.
