The Sovereignty of Good, 2nd Edition

‘One of the very few modern books of philosophy which people outside academic philosophy find really useful.’ - Mary Midgely ‘ … Murdoch’s attack is the fruit of a thorough professional involvement with the school of thought to which she is opposed.’ - Anthony Quinton, Sunday Telegraph ‘All three essays which make up this book, The Idea of Perfection, On ‘God’ and ‘Good’, and The Sovereignty of Good over Other Concepts, are superb.’ - The Guardian

Iris Murdoch (1919-1999) was an Anglo-Irish novelist and philosopher, best known for her novels which combine rich characterization and compelling plotlines, often exploring themes of good and evil, morality, and the power of love. Born in Dublin, she was educated at Somerville College, Oxford, where she studied classics and philosophy. She later taught philosophy at St Anne’s College, Oxford. Murdoch was a prolific writer, publishing 26 novels, as well as works of philosophy, poetry, and drama. Her novels include Under the Net, The Bell, The Sea, the Sea (which won the Booker Prize), and The Good Apprentice. She was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1987.