In my estimation, Ms. Elizabeth Anscombe would have made Pope John Paul II very proud! Proud because she uniquely personified the New Feminism that he readily preached during his pontificate. The late Holy Father recognized the need for women to engage in social, economic, cultural and political life. In fact, he thanked women throughout the centuries who made “an indispensable contribution to the growth of a culture which unites reason and feeling.” As a philosopher and activist, Anscombe did just that!
She wasn’t afraid to bring her professionalism and intellectualism to the world around her. And, with a Catholic worldview, she presented her thoughts and arguments without abandoning her authentic femininity. In fact, her academic and political activism accentuated her “feminine genius,” as witnessed when her honesty challenged contemporary thought and her intuitive sensitivity helped to defend the weakest among her.
Before his death, Pope John Paul II said “I cannot fail to express my admiration for those women of good will who have devoted their lives to defending the dignity of womanhood by fighting for their basic…rights, demonstrating courageous initiative at a time when this was considered extremely inappropriate, [and even] the sign of a lack of femininity.”
Yes, Catholic women should be encouraged and proud of this “new feminist!” Today, at Princeton University, we see the legacy of Ms. Elizabeth Anscombe, who wasn’t afraid to stand by her principles and promote truth, even in the face of opposition and judgment.