Course Listening for Lesson 30 - "Naming God"

Course Listening for Lesson 8 - "The Principle of Non-Contradiction"

Fr. James Brent, O.P., a theologian specializing in the philosophy of St. Thomas Aquinas, discusses free agency and human action. The podcast explores the concept of free will and decision-making, delving into the metaphysical underpinnings of reality and the pursuit of happiness. It contrasts ancient Sophists' views with perennial philosophical traditions, explores lower appetites in human nature, and examines how intellect and will shape human acts. The discussion also touches on the pursuit of truth, the significance of every choice in the pursuit of happiness, and the duality of goods and free will.

Fr. James Brent, O.P., discusses wishful thinking in beliefs, challenges to faith and reason, and the evidentialist objection against Christian faith. The conversation delves into the complexities of faith as testimony, conversion, and redefining the historical perception of the Inquisition.

Fr. James Brent, O.P. discusses the nature of evil according to St. Thomas Aquinas. Topics include the metaphysics of evil as privation, different interpretations of perfection, the concept of evil as absence of good, and debunking misconceptions about completely evil beings.

Fr. James Brent, O.P., discusses Ur-Platonism and Big Tent Platonism as frameworks to counter contemporary atheism. He challenges prevailing beliefs, explores rationality through different perspectives, and emphasizes the principle of non-contradiction in unveiling absolute truth.

Fr. James Brent, O.P., discusses the limitations of scientism and the importance of philosophical wisdom. He explores the implications of reducing knowledge to material units, challenges in justifying moral claims through science, and the search for ultimate truths beyond empirical observation.

Fr. James Brent, O.P., a philosopher and theologian, discusses the fundamental principles of nature according to Aristotle and St. Thomas Aquinas. He explores concepts like potentiality, matter, form, substance, accident, change, and the four causes, contrasting traditional philosophical views with modern scientific perspectives. The focus is on hylomorphism and the application of principles in understanding nature.

Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P. is known for his roles in Aquinas 101, while Fr. James Brent, O.P. specializes in the philosophy of Christian beliefs. They unpack the significance of St. John Paul II's philosophy, focusing on his key works like 'Person and Act' and 'Love and Responsibility.' The discussion highlights the accessibility of his prepapal writings and explores themes of human dignity and community. They also reflect on the enduring legacy of his papacy amidst the teachings of Vatican II, emphasizing the need for strong communal bonds in challenging times.

Fr. James Brent, O.P., discusses the spiritual maternity of Mary, highlighting her role as a spiritual mother and how individuals can benefit from her nurturing, teaching, and protective care in their spiritual lives.