This unique book provides a personal perspective into the original, wide-ranging, and underappreciated work of Mary Midgley. McElwain's interviews and personal reflections flesh out Midgley's insights about topics ranging from the metaphysical to the concrete. They also shed light on the biographical and historical context in which she worked, especially her role in the influential “quartet” along with G.E.M. Anscombe, Philippa Foot, and Iris Murdoch.

Anna Peterson, Cronin Term Professor of Religion, University of Florida, USA

Rich and expansive, Gregory McElwain tells the story of an inter-generational philosophical friendship with one the most important thinkers of the 20th century – Mary Midgley. McElwain combines his own mastery of Midgley's philosophy with her own philosophical reflections in the interviews guided by McElwain's questions. Together, Midgley and McElwain talk us through the topics she thought mattered: human nature, morality, nonhuman animals and the natural world. We are left with an image of philosophy as a human enterprise – something done between meals, cups of tea, interruptions, and the gifting of objects, books and notes. Philosophy is not hampered by age or mischievous hearing aids; it's as much a part of human life as both these things.

Ellie Robson, Teaching Fellow, University of Warwick, UK