Revolutionizing Ethics: Female Philosophers from Oxford

Female philosophers of modern and non-modern times have long been sidelined in academic circles and popular media. However, their significant contributions to philosophy, particularly in the realms of ethics and the quest for truth, goodness, and beauty, are undeniably noteworthy. This article explores the impactful works of four prominent female philosophers from Oxford, whose critical thinking and ethical theories continue to shape contemporary debates and academic discussions.

Innovative Contributions of Four Notable Female Philosophers

Elizabeth Anscombe, Philippa Foot, Mary Midgley, and Iris Murdoch are four influential female philosophers who have significantly impacted the world of philosophy. Although they achieved much of their recognition in the mid-20th century, their works continue to resonate and inspire researchers and students today.

Acknowledging the Legacy

These philosophers have made pioneering contributions to the field of ethics, particularly in virtue ethics, critiques of materialism, narrative ethics, and the revival of naturalistic ethics. They have challenged the dominant ethical frameworks that view human conduct solely through a value-free lens, emphasizing instead the role of human nature in determining moral truths.

New Books Highlighting Their Impact

Their impact is increasingly being recognized, with the publication of two new books that highlight their groundbreaking work:

The Women Are Up to Something: How Elizabeth Anscombe, Philippa Foot, Mary Midgley, and Iris Murdoch Revolutionized Ethics by Benjamin JP Lipscomb: This book delves into the lives and intellectual projects of these four eminent philosophers. It tells the story of their personal and professional relationships as well as their shared philosophical journey that ultimately transformed the very landscape of ethical theory. Metaphysical Animals: How Four Women Brought Philosophy Back to Life by Clare Mac Cumhaill and Rachel Wiseman: This book focuses on the lives and philosophical contributions of Anscombe, Foot, Midgley, and Murdoch. It explores how these philosophers reinvigorated metaphysical discussions and philosophy as a whole through their critical engagements with logical positivism, dogmatism, and other established thought.

Summary of "The Women Are Up to Something"

This book is essentially a dual narrative that intertwines personal histories with intellectual endeavors. The story begins in the aftermath of World War II, as Anscombe, Foot, Midgley, and Murdoch arrived at Oxford together. Their shared interest in ethics quickly became a powerful influence on each other, leading to a series of groundbreaking discussions and papers. They diagnosed the prevailing ethical doctrines of the time as intellectually shallow and damaging to societal values. In response, they proposed a revival of naturalistic ethics, grounding moral truths in human nature and biological necessities.

Overcoming Chauvinism in Philosophy

One of the recurring themes in these books is the struggle of these women to find a place in the predominantly male-dominated field of philosophy. Their journey highlights the importance of perseverance and the impact of academic friendships in advancing one's career and ideas.

Keywords and Related Philosophers

While Anscombe, Foot, Midgley, and Murdoch are the focus of these studies, there are several other notable female philosophers whose contributions are equally significant. Some of these include:

Mary Ann Glendon of Harvard University: An influential legal scholar and philosopher, known for her work on international legal norms and the role of language in law. Deborah Tannen at Georgetown and Princeton: A linguist and communication scholar who has extensively researched gender differences in language use and discourse. Alice von Hildebrand of both CUNY and Hunter College: A philosopher whose work focuses on philosophy of mind, ethics, and political philosophy. Dorothy Day (ed. George Eliot): While not strictly a contemporary, her feminist and pacifist contributions to philosophy and social justice are noteworthy. Edith Stein (pen name): A German philosopher and theologian, her work in phenomenology and existential philosophy continues to influence contemporary thought.

These female philosophers have made substantial contributions to the field of ethics and philosophy, challenges to dominant ethical frameworks, and have paved the way for future generations of scholars and thinkers.