As the nation's oldest and most widely known academic honors society, Phi Beta Kappa embraces the principles of freedom of inquiry and liberty of thought and expression. Symbolized by a distinctive gold key, election to Phi Beta Kappa represents a commitment to the liberal arts and sciences, laying the foundations of personal freedom, scientific inquiry, liberty of conscience, and creative endeavor. Members demonstrate intellectual integrity, tolerance for other viewpoints, and a broad range of academic interests. Each year, about one in every hundred college junior or seniors nationwide are invited to join Phi Beta Kappa.
