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Open Door Philosophy

Ep. 89 The Oxford Four, Part Four: Mary Midgley

Aug 20, 2024
Mary Midgley, an influential philosopher known for her work on metaphilosophy and morality, takes center stage. She passionately critiques reductionism and scientism, advocating for a holistic understanding of human experience. The conversation dives into her renowned writings and rich philosophical insights, emphasizing the importance of context in moral choices. Midgley's engaging style and unique life journey shine through, alongside light-hearted anecdotes about her signature hats. The episode also touches on the philosophical contributions of women in the 20th century.
01:10:17

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Mary Midgley emphasizes philosophy as a vital background activity that informs our daily decisions and understanding of life.
  • She critiques reductionism and scientism, advocating for a more integrated approach to understanding human behavior and ethical dilemmas.

Deep dives

Introduction to Mary Midgley

Mary Midgley, a notable philosopher of the late 20th and early 21st centuries, made significant contributions to discussions on human nature and ethics. Known affectionately as the 'hat lady' for her distinctive style, Midgley published her first book, 'Beast and Man: The Roots of Human Nature', at the age of 50. This work laid the foundation for her career, leading to further exploration of themes such as morality, reductionism, and societal interconnectedness. Her last book, 'What is Philosophy For?', released shortly before her passing at 99, encapsulates her philosophical journey and ongoing relevance in contemporary thought.

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