Sr. Elinor Gardner, O.P., an Affiliate Assistant Professor of Philosophy at the University of Dallas, leads a thought-provoking discussion on death and human nature. She delves into Clarence Darrow's philosophical arguments against the soul and immortality, sparking a debate on empirical evidence versus ancient beliefs. The conversation also highlights St. Thomas Aquinas’s views on the immortal soul and the significance of abstract reasoning. Gardner explores early Christian beliefs about bodily resurrection, illuminating how they foster hope for eternal life.

In this enlightening discussion, Sr. Elinor Gardner, O.P., an Affiliate Assistant Professor of Philosophy at the University of Dallas, delves into the complexities of capital punishment from a Catholic perspective. She explores John Paul II's encyclical, emphasizing evolving views on non-violence and moral opposition. Key topics include theological insights on human dignity, historical tensions within the Church regarding execution, and the importance of advocating for life-affirming alternatives. Gardner’s expertise sheds light on a nuanced debate that resonates with contemporary ethical concerns.

Sister Elinor Gardner, O.P., an expert in Aquinas' ethical and political philosophy, dives into the moral complexities of vengeance from a Christian perspective. She challenges the notion that justice requires punishment, emphasizing the transformative power of forgiveness. Delving into Augustine's views, she discusses the importance of distinguishing between justice and vindictiveness. The conversation highlights how true love may involve desiring consequences for our loved ones’ actions, intertwining suffering, justice, and compassion.