David Bentley Hart, a philosopher and theologian renowned for his insights on evil and Christian thought, dives deep into the problem of suffering and faith. He examines how ancient Stoic beliefs intersect with Christian resurrection narratives. The conversation also traverses the complexities of consciousness and language, questioning materialist views. Hart elaborates on the portrayal of Jesus across the Gospels, offering a rich analysis of early Christology and its evolution. Together, they explore the interplay of love, hope, and the Divine amidst life's trials.

Philosopher and theologian David Bentley Hart explores the complexities of defining 'God' and the misunderstandings surrounding the concept. The podcast discusses the crisis in language, the nature of consciousness, and the longing for happiness. It also delves into the commonality of religious traditions and ways to deepen understanding through wonder, arts, and religion.

David Bentley Hart is an American writer, philosopher, religious scholar, critic, and theologian who has authored over 1,000 essays and 19 books, including a very well-known translation of the New Testament and several volumes of fiction. In this conversation, Tyler and David discuss ways in which Orthodox Christianity is not so millenarian, how theological patience shapes the polities of Orthodox Christian nations, how Heidegger deepened his understanding of Christian Orthodoxy, who played left field for the Baltimore Orioles in 1970, the simplest way to explain how Orthodoxy diverges from Catholicism, the future of the American Orthodox Church, what he thinks of the Book of Mormon, whether theological arguments are ultimately based on reason or faith, what he makes of reincarnation and near-death experiences, gnosticism in movies and TV, why he dislikes Sarah Ruden’s translation of the New Testament, the most difficult word to translate, a tally of the 15+ languages he knows, what he’ll work on next, and more. Read a full transcript enhanced with helpful links, or watch the full video.  Recorded March 23rd, 2023. Other ways to connect Follow us on Twitter and Instagram Follow Tyler on Twitter Join our Discord Email us: cowenconvos@mercatus.gmu.edu Learn more about Conversations with Tyler and other Mercatus Center podcasts here.

David Bentley Hart, an esteemed author and philosopher recognized for his insights on theology and cultural criticism, discusses core concepts from his book. He challenges materialistic views of consciousness, emphasizing a unified relationship between mind and matter. Hart critiques physicalism and dualism, advocating for a perspective that sees consciousness as transcendent. He also explores the deep connections between language and reality, highlighting its role in rationality and divine communication, ultimately encouraging a reflection on intentionality and communion with God.

David Bentley Hart, a renowned theologian and philosopher known for his insights into religion and culture, delves into his thought-provoking book 'All Things are Full of Gods.' He presents the Socratic dialogue format that makes complex ideas accessible. The conversation navigates ancient myths, linking Greek gods to contemporary Christianity while revealing how these stories resonate with C.S. Lewis's themes of truth and beauty. Hart further explores the philosophical tensions between consciousness and materialism, highlighting love's role in understanding human experience.