Women in Philosophy Talk

Earlier this term, Dr West delivered an engaging talk to philosophy students titled Thinking as Human Beings – Women and the Story of 20th Century Philosophy.  

He explored how the history of philosophy, often dominated by white European men like Russell, Ayer, and Wittgenstein, overshadows the significant contributions of women philosophers. Dr West discussed three remarkable people: Susan Stebbing, Margaret Macdonald, and Dorothy Emmet. Stebbing, Britain’s first female philosophy professor, was a strong advocate for clear thinking in a world full of misinformation. Her book Thinking to Some Purpose promoted logical reasoning and critical thought. Macdonald, a student of Stebbing and Wittgenstein, helped publish Wittgenstein’s works and founded the journal Analysis. Emmet, Britain’s second female philosophy professor, built the philosophy department at Manchester during World War II.

Dr West discussed how these philosophers answered the question: ‘What’s the point of philosophy?’ Stebbing argued that it’s a human responsibility to use reason to decide what’s true or false. Macdonald saw philosophy as enriching, like art, offering new ways to view the familiar. Emmet believed philosophy helps us navigate life’s complexities by encouraging different perspectives and ‘seeing life steadily’ amidst the constant change.

Overall, Dr West’s fantastic talk illustrated how these women’s contributions continue to influence our philosophical understanding.