The Thomistic Institute cover image

The Thomistic Institute

A Philosophical Theology of the Body? Eros in Plato and John Paul II | Professor Joshua Hochschild

Jan 11, 2024
Joshua Hochschild, Professor of Philosophy and Director of Philosophy, Politics and Economics at Mount St. Mary’s University, discusses the compatibility of Eros and Agape in love, drawing comparisons between Plato's Symposium and John Paul II's theology of the body. He explores different types of love in Greek philosophy, summarizes the speeches on love in Plato's Symposium, and contemplates the nature of beauty. Hochschild also explores the various perspectives on love in Plato's Symposium and delves into John Paul II's theology of the body in response to the sexual revolution.
50:54

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • John Paul II's theology of the body upholds the inseparable connection between the unitive and procreative dimensions of sexual acts, emphasizing that sexual love involves the whole person, body, and soul.
  • Plato's Symposium and John Paul II's theology of the body share themes of love as a holistic experience involving body and soul, the pursuit of communion and fruitful self-giving, and a counter-narrative to the hedonistic ethos of their respective times.

Deep dives

The Theology of the Body and Humanae Vitae

The podcast explores how John Paul II's theology of the body addresses the crisis precipitated by the teachings of Humanae Vitae on sexual ethics. It discusses how his theology of the body offers arguments and a persuasive framework to uphold the inseparable connection between the unitive and procreative dimensions of sexual acts. It emphasizes that sexual love involves the whole person, body, and soul, with choices made with the body carrying spiritual meaning. The summary also highlights the theology of the body's focus on self-giving, sacrificial love that is both fruitful spiritually and physically.

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
App store bannerPlay store banner