Mary Warnock

Helen Mary Wilson, Baroness Warnock CH DBE FBA FMedSci (1924–2019) was an English philosopher specializing in morality, education, and the philosophy of mind, and a writer on existentialism. She is best known for chairing a pivotal inquiry whose report laid the foundation for the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990. From 1984 to 1991, she served as the Mistress of Girton College, Cambridge. Warnock's career included significant roles in academia, holding positions at St Hugh's College and Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford, and later at Girton College. She also contributed to public policy, chairing committees on special education and human fertilization and embryology, which led to significant legislative changes. Her writings explored ethics, existentialism, and the philosophy of mind. She was recognized with numerous honors, including a Damehood, a life peerage, and appointment to the Order of the Companions of Honour.