Philosopher Mary Warnock explores how her work in the "soft" sciences makes progress in social and political life, through committee and governmental collaboration in five areas: education, embryonic research, genetics, the morals of animal testing, and arts administration. In each chapter, Warnock mixes the personal with the professional presenting an enjoyable and interesting insight into how boards, committees and steering groups can shape politics and social behaviour. Although I do not agree with some of Warnock's stances, I was impressed by her ability to compromise and socialise to try to ensure the best results from each of her broad array of endeavours. I also enjoyed her storytelling throughout.

At times the book becomes a little repetitive, as the formation of one board or another seems to follow a logic that does not need to be repeated. But as a documentation of the life and achievements of Warnock, and the importance of diplomacy in democratic political development, it was an excellent and informative read. ( )