Templeton Ideas Podcast David Bentley Hart (A Philosopher's God)
Jul 17, 2025
David Bentley Hart, a renowned scholar of philosophy and theology, dives into the intriguing intersection of idealism and baseball. He questions the adequacy of materialism in explaining life and consciousness, arguing for a view where mind might be fundamental. Hart critiques modern dualism, links Aristotelian thought to biological studies, and offers insights from Eastern philosophies on consciousness. With a playful nod to his love for baseball, he suggests that the sport embodies a spiritual discipline, enriching his exploration of existence.
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Idealism As A Third Option
- Hart presents idealism as a third option: a single mind-like reality containing all minds and matter.
- He argues consciousness mediates our experience, so an absolute mind could be the container of everything.
Childhood Baseball Revelation
- David Bentley Hart describes growing up an Orioles fan and watching Jim Palmer pitch when he was ten.
- That childhood baseball memory convinced him he wasn't meant to face major league pitchers.
Form And Mind Precede Materialism
- Hart contends pure materialism cannot plausibly explain life and mind emerging from matter alone.
- He claims form and consciousness are prior realities shaping material history.
