Rachael Wiseman Books

"A vibrant portrait of four college friends-Iris Murdoch, Philippa Foot, Elizabeth Anscombe, and Mary Midgley-who formed a new philosophical tradition while Oxford's men were away at war"--

G. E. M. Anscombe's Intention is a classic of twentieth-century philosophy. The work has achieved notoriety despite being a dense text and is a standard reference point for anyone engaging with philosophy of action and philosophy of psychology. This guidebook situates Anscombe and Intention in their historical context and considers the influence and implications of the piece whilst distinguishing it from subsequent work in the philosophy of action. It is an essential introduction for anyone wanting to understand and gain a perspective on Anscombe's seminal work; useful in the study of the philosophy of action, philosophy of psychology and related areas.

Focusing on the lives and intellectual contributions of four influential women—Iris Murdoch, Philippa Foot, Elizabeth Anscombe, and Mary Midgley—this book explores how they shaped a new philosophical tradition during a time when their male counterparts were absent due to war. It delves into their friendships, ideas, and the impact they had on philosophy, highlighting their unique perspectives and the challenges they faced in a male-dominated field.