1919-2001
“The breadth of her work is impressive. She was systematic in her thinking, seeing and developing connections between metaphysics, moral psychology, and ethics that exhibited not simply a grasp of one particular problem, but a world view. Her legacy is one of the broadest and deepest left by a 20th century philosopher.” – Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy
- Cambridge philosopher who occupied the Chair formerly held by Wittgenstein.
- Married philosopher Peter Geach.
- She was known as a fierce debater.
- In 1956, publicly opposed the decision of Oxford University to award an honorary degree to Harry Truman for his decision to use of atomic weapons against Japan.
- She opposed contraception.
- Influenced by Wittgenstein particularly in her views on metaphysics
- Most influential on her works on causation. She challenged Hume’s view and established a trend towards probabilistic views of causality.
- Her book Intention (on intentionality) is considered a classic of twentieth century philosophy.
- Famously challenged Oxford don C.S. Lewis’ argument in chapter 3 of his book Miracles at a meeting of the Socratic Club. Her challenge was so formidable, that Lewis allegedly became so upset by the argument that he rewrote chapter 3 for the paper version of his book to account for Anscombe’s argument.
Today’s quote: “Mr. President, I’m not saying we wouldn’t get our hair mussed. But I do say no more than ten to twenty million killed, tops. Uh, depending on the breaks.” – General Turgidson (Dr. Strangelove)
