 Overshadowed by Addams’ relationship with the celebrity philosopher, Dewey, was her strong tie to George Herbert Mead (1863–1931), who is considered the father of “symbolic interactionism,” an approach to social inquiry that emphasizes how symbols create meaning in society. Mead’s work on development through play and education influenced Addams, but, as with Dewey, the influence was mutual. Addams maintained a long-term close personal relationship with Mead and his wife, Helen Castle Mead. They often dined together and visited one another’s families. Like Addams’, Mead’s intellectual legacy is not altogether settled. Sociologists have recognized his works as significant, but many philosophers have overlooked him.