The Women Are Up to Something

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The story follows four remarkable women—Elizabeth Anscombe, Philippa Foot, Mary Midgley, and Iris Murdoch—who significantly influenced 20th-century intellectual history. As they began their studies at Oxford on the brink of World War II, they represented diverse backgrounds: a brilliant Catholic convert, a privileged daughter seeking freedom, an ardent Communist and aspiring novelist, and a quiet lover of nature destined to become a prominent public intellectual. Despite the male-dominated environment, they formed lifelong friendships and navigated their personal and professional lives as the war changed the landscape of academia. Together, they challenged the status quo, asserting that some lives are inherently more valuable than others. Their discussions emphasized the importance of courage, discernment, justice, and love in leading a good life. This work offers a comprehensive exploration of their contributions, drawing on newly accessible archives, extensive correspondence, and interviews with those who knew them. It highlights how these four friends reshaped our understanding of ethics and self-reflection, leaving a lasting impact on philosophical discourse.