Penelope Mackie

Penelope Mackie (1953–2022) was a British philosopher whose work focused on metaphysics and philosophical logic. She was particularly recognized for her contributions to the understanding of essence and modality. Mackie dedicated the majority of her academic career to the Department of Philosophy at the University of Nottingham, where she served from 2004 until her passing in 2022. Prior to her tenure at Nottingham, she held academic appointments at the University of Birmingham, Virginia Commonwealth University, and New College, Oxford. Mackie received her undergraduate education at Somerville College, Oxford, commencing in 1971. She earned her Bachelor of Philosophy (BPhil) in Philosophy in 1978, with a thesis titled 'Identity and Continuity'. Subsequently, in 1987, she was awarded her Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) for her dissertation, 'How Things Might Have Been: A Study in Essentialism'. During her time at the University of Nottingham, she also served as the head of the philosophy department from 2007 to 2010. Her academic journey also included roles such as a lecturer at the University of Birmingham (1994–2004), a fellow at New College, Oxford (1990–1994), and an assistant professor at Virginia Commonwealth University (1987–1990).