The Augustine Podcast Dr. Phillip Cary - Augustine's Invention of the Inner-Self: The Legacy of a Christian Platonist
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Oct 12, 2022 
In this discussion, Dr. Phillip Cary, a philosophy professor at Eastern University and author with a focus on Augustine, dives into the profound legacy of St. Augustine's ideas. He unveils how Augustine’s philosophy emphasizes the inner self and the quest for true beauty found within us rather than in external objects. Cary contrasts Augustine's thoughts on love, unity, and grace with those of Aquinas, providing fresh insights into Christian Platonism. Listen for a fascinating exploration of self-knowledge and the divine that reshapes our understanding of faith.
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Cary's Augustine Research Journey
- Phillip Cary began researching Luther's theological epistemology but found Augustine profoundly different.
- His dissertation on Augustine's semiotics expanded into three books due to unexpected findings.
Augustine's Inward Turn to God
- Augustine urges a turn inward to find God, distinguishing between external beauty and God within.
- External things are good but distract from the inward presence of divine light and love.
Platonism Illuminates Augustine
- Augustine's Platonic lens clarifies his spirituality, making his moves clear and coherent.
- He aligns Psalms imagery with Neoplatonic spirituality focused on intellectual vision.