The Thomistic Institute
Friendships and Social Life - Thomistic Insights | Prof. Thomas Hibbs & Fr. Aquinas Guilbeau, O.P.
Nov 29, 2024
Join Professor Thomas Hibbs, a leading philosophy expert from Baylor University, and Fr. Aquinas Guilbeau, a Dominican priest and University Chaplain at The Catholic University of America, as they delve into the essence of friendship. They discuss the alarming decline of meaningful relationships today, emphasizing insights from Aristotle and Aquinas on the intrinsic value of true friendship. The conversation critiques modern individualism, advocating for a richer understanding of community and the common good, highlighting how genuine connections can alleviate suffering.
26:12
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Quick takeaways
- The decline of genuine friendship in modern society highlights the need for authentic relationships to foster social cohesion and personal fulfillment.
- Aristotle and Aquinas stress that true friendships, rooted in shared experiences, provide emotional support and alleviate sorrow during adversity.
Deep dives
The Decline of Friendship and Civic Engagement
Recent surveys indicate a dramatic decline in friendship and civic engagement, with the average number of close friends falling from 3.5 to 1.7 over the past few decades. This decline is coupled with a marked increase in political animosity, where nearly 45% of Americans express hatred towards members of opposing political parties. As loneliness becomes prevalent, many individuals seek community and belonging through social media and identity politics, highlighting a cultural shift away from authentic relationships. These trends suggest a need to reassess the value of genuine friendship in fostering social cohesion and personal fulfillment.
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