Maurice O'Connor Drury

Maurice O'Connor 'Con' Drury (1907 %E2%80%93 1976) extracted 'head shot'

Maurice O'Connor Drury (1907–1976) was an Irish psychiatrist and writer, best known for his work on the philosophy of Ludwig Wittgenstein. Drury was a close friend and student of Wittgenstein, and his writings provide valuable insights into Wittgenstein's thoughts and teachings.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Maurice O'Connor Drury was born in 1907 in Marlborough, Wiltshire, England. He was educated at Marlborough College and later attended Trinity College, Cambridge, where he studied medicine. It was at Cambridge that Drury first encountered Wittgenstein, who was then a professor of philosophy.

Relationship with Wittgenstein[edit | edit source]

Drury's relationship with Wittgenstein began as a student-teacher relationship but soon developed into a deep friendship. Wittgenstein had a profound influence on Drury's thinking and career. Drury's notes and recollections of Wittgenstein's lectures and conversations are considered important sources for understanding Wittgenstein's philosophy.

Career in Psychiatry[edit | edit source]

After completing his medical studies, Drury pursued a career in psychiatry. He worked at several hospitals in Ireland, including St. Patrick's University Hospital in Dublin. Drury's approach to psychiatry was deeply influenced by his philosophical background, particularly by Wittgenstein's ideas on the nature of mind and language.

Writings[edit | edit source]

Drury authored several works that reflect his philosophical and psychiatric interests. His most notable book, The Danger of Words, explores the relationship between language and mental health, drawing heavily on Wittgenstein's philosophy. Drury also wrote numerous articles and essays on psychiatry and philosophy.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Maurice O'Connor Drury is remembered for his unique contributions to both psychiatry and philosophy. His writings continue to be studied by those interested in Wittgenstein's philosophy and the intersection of language and mental health.