The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)

Day 237: The Morality of the Passions (2024)

Aug 24, 2024

Exploring the morality of passions, the discussion reveals that passions themselves are neutral but can lead to virtue or vice based on our choices. Delving into human psychology, the importance of harmonizing emotions with reason is emphasized. Love is highlighted as a key passion driving moral actions, while the pitfalls of acting solely on emotions are critiqued. The transformative power of aligning passions with Christian teachings is stressed, advocating for a deeper understanding of morality through intellect and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

22:45

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Quick takeaways

Passions are inherently neutral but hold moral significance based on how individuals choose to act upon them.

Transforming one's passions toward moral goodness is essential for aligning desires with virtuous actions and true moral perfection.

Deep dives

Understanding Passions

Passions, defined as feelings or movements of the sensitive appetite, are crucial to understanding human behavior and morality. They can motivate individuals to act or refrain from acting in response to perceived good or evil, serving as natural components of the human psyche. The most fundamental passion is love, which fosters a desire for good and generates emotions like joy when the good is attained. Conversely, negative emotions such as hatred and fear emerge when confronted with evil, illustrating the dual nature of the passions and their significance in moral decision-making.

Intro

2min

Understanding Passions and Their Moral Implications

4min

Understanding the Morality of Passions

8min

Exploring the Core of Human Passions and Morality

6min

The Transformation of Passions in Christian Morality

4min

Together, we examine The Morality of The Passions. Fr. Mike unpacks and explores the different elements of the definition of “passions”. He emphasizes that while passions, themselves, are neither good nor bad, there still is a moral component to them. It is what we do with our passions that can either contribute to virtue or vice. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1762-1775.

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

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