Full Breakdown
Unearthing Iris Murdoch: A Celebration of Humanities at the Think Human Festival
4/11/2026, 9:04:07 PM
Festival Overview and Core Event
The upcoming Think Human festival, scheduled from April 15-18 at Oxford Brookes University, will spotlight recently discovered writings by Dame Iris Murdoch, a notable novelist, philosopher, and academic. The festival aims to foster connections between academics and the local community, featuring discussions and readings that celebrate the contributions of women philosophers, including Murdoch. Gary Browning, a committee member and Emeritus Professor, will lead a discussion titled "Oxford Quartet: Women Philosophers Against the Tide" on April 17, focusing on the lives and works of Murdoch, Elizabeth Anscombe, Philippa Foot, and Mary Midgley, all of whom studied at Oxford in the 1930s.
Background on Iris Murdoch
Dame Iris Murdoch is acclaimed for her novels such as *Under The Net*, *The Black Prince*, and *The Sea, the Sea*, as well as her philosophical essays that delve into morality and human relationships. The recently discovered poems, found in the attic of her former home on Charlbury Road, will be featured in a collection titled *Poems from an Attic*. Browning noted that one of the poems, a love poem about Anscombe, is particularly powerful.
Significance of the Festival
The Think Human festival is designed to be inclusive, with event director Professor Katharine Craik emphasizing the importance of openness and engagement with diverse communities. The festival will also include discussions on various topics, such as motherhood, the legacy of New Labour, and grassroots football. Additionally, a special day event for schools is planned to enhance students' understanding of humanities subjects in preparation for their A-levels.
Official Statements & Responses
Browning expressed enthusiasm for the festival, describing it as "an absolutely fantastic occasion" that encourages spirited conversations between the audience and speakers. Craik highlighted the festival's commitment to commemorating local history, mentioning Harriet Jacobs as a remarkable figure of the 19th century whose contributions will be recognized during the event.
Criticism & Opposition
While the festival celebrates Murdoch's legacy, some may question the relevance of her works in contemporary discussions of ethics and morality. Critics might argue that the focus on historical figures could overshadow current philosophical debates and the contributions of modern thinkers.
Verbatim Quotes
- “These women were much more inclined to be more objective in ethics and thought that we needed a strong support for ethics in philosophy,” — Gary Browning, Emeritus Professor
- “For me and for many of my colleagues who are running events this year, being human is about openness and having an interest in other people's lives, other people's communities, other people's realities, and bringing people into conversations” — Professor Katharine Craik
The Think Human festival promises to be a significant event, celebrating the legacy of Iris Murdoch and fostering dialogue about the humanities in today's society.
