Judging: A panel of philosophers, educators and parents will conduct the judging. High school judging is based on the following criteria: Strength of philosophical argument, originality and creativity, clarity, basis of the essay in personal experience if applicable, spelling and grammar. The top two finalists from each state will be selected for the semi-final round, and then four finalists will be selected and announced in April of 2009. All other winners, including The Most Philosophical Student in America, will be announced in May of 2009.