This document provides an overview of the philosophical foundations of education. It discusses how philosophy helps educators formulate beliefs and assumptions to make decisions about curriculum development. The document outlines some of the major philosophical approaches that influence education, including idealism, realism, pragmatism, and existentialism. It also discusses four educational philosophies: perennialism, essentialism, progressivism, and reconstructionism. Finally, it notes that philosophical foundations help determine the overall purpose of education and the roles of those involved by shaping the way goals and objectives are established for curriculum.