There are three underlying reasons why philosophers often study the foundations of mathematics. First, these foundations have always been a part of scientific thought, with the abstract nature of mathematical objects offering unusual and often unique philosophical quandaries. Second, the subject offers a high level of technical sophistication, allowing philosophers to develop connections between models and patterns, laying the groundwork for many other sciences. And finally, the foundations of mathematics provides ways for philosophers (and mathematicians) to try out general philosophical doctrines in a specific scientific context.