Manly P. Hall opens by reflecting on fourteen years of lecturing and writing, noting that difficult social conditions have renewed public interest in deeper philosophical questions. He argues that modern civilization suffers from “opinionism” and immature thinking, while the great philosophical traditions offer tested, enduring principles capable of guiding individuals toward intelligent, cooperative living. Hall emphasizes that the average person lacks the time and training to extract essential wisdom from the vast literature of the world, and therefore he feels compelled to organize and transmit the distilled core of humanity’s philosophical heritage. He describes philosophy—rooted in the ancient meaning of “love of wisdom”—as a practical, transformative discipline aimed at right living, right thinking, and noble action.

The letter then outlines Hall’s plan for a twelve‑month cycle summarizing the seven branches of philosophy, including the often‑omitted seventh: Theurgy, the “divine work” by which a person becomes godlike through disciplined self‑perfecting. Philosophy, he writes, is the “perfect science and the science of perfection,” elevating the intellect toward the divine plan and ultimately uniting the individual with universal wisdom. In an age where theology leads to confusion and science to unbelief, Hall insists that only philosophy can overcome fear, restore courage, and guide humanity toward a Golden Age. This introductory letter prepares students for the coming lessons on metaphysics and encourages them to share the teachings with others who seek enlightenment.