The Thomistic Institute
The Thomistic Institute
The Thomistic Institute exists to promote Catholic truth in our contemporary world by strengthening the intellectual formation of Christians at universities, in the Church, and in the wider public square. The thought of St. Thomas Aquinas, the Universal Doctor of the Church, is our touchstone.
The Thomistic Institute Podcast features the lectures and talks from our conferences, campus chapters events, intellectual retreats, livestream events, and much more.
Founded in 2009, the Thomistic Institute is part of the Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception at the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, DC.
The Thomistic Institute Podcast features the lectures and talks from our conferences, campus chapters events, intellectual retreats, livestream events, and much more.
Founded in 2009, the Thomistic Institute is part of the Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception at the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, DC.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 28, 2025 • 48min
St. Augustine on Love for Confused Lovers I Fr. Andrew Hofer, O.P.
Fr. Andrew Hofer, O.P., a professor at the Pontifical Faculty of the Dominican House of Studies, dives deep into St. Augustine's turbulent journey of love and longing. He explores the complexities of human and divine affection, inspired by Augustine's own life experiences. Hofer illustrates how love drives us toward goodness and God, and discusses Augustine's transformative quest for true fulfillment in divine love despite earthly distractions. Through reflections on confession and mercy, listeners are encouraged to re-evaluate their own relationships with love.
Jul 25, 2025 • 47min
Catholic Teaching on Birth Control: Beyond Common Misunderstandings I Prof. Gina Noia
Gina Noia, an Assistant Professor of Theology at Providence College with a PhD in Theology and Health Care Ethics, dives deep into Catholic teachings on responsible parenthood. She contrasts natural family planning with contraception, emphasizing the ethical implications of each approach. Noia unpacks commonly held misunderstandings and highlights the procreative and unitive aspects of marital love. With a background in clinical ethics, her insights marry theology with real-world applications, making for an enlightening discussion on family life.
Jul 24, 2025 • 30min
The Ethics of Abortion: Women's Rights, Human Life, and the Question of Justice I Prof. Christopher Kaczor
Christopher Kaczor, a Professor at Duke University renowned for his expertise in moral philosophy and ethics, dives deep into the complexities of abortion. He reflects on a personal journey of discovering impending parenthood, weaving in emotional insights. Kaczor discusses the ethical facets of abortion, emphasizing fetal rights and the broader question of human dignity. He critiques common philosophical arguments about bodily autonomy, while also sharing a poignant story about love and sacrifice, revealing the transformative impact of genuine human connections.
Jul 23, 2025 • 50min
Thomistic Perspectives on True Artificial Intelligence I Prof. Jordan Wales
Prof. Jordan Wales, an expert in theology and AI from Hillsdale College, critiques artificial intelligence through an Augustinian lens. He challenges conventional definitions of intelligence, emphasizing intentionality and experiential understanding. Wales discusses the limitations of AI, highlighting Searle's Chinese Room to argue that machines lack true understanding. He also navigates the historical philosophical perspectives on intelligence, drawing connections between love, moral judgment, and what it means to truly know.
Jul 22, 2025 • 39min
The Christian Imagination I Prof. Raymond Hain
Raymond Hain, Associate Professor of Philosophy at Providence College, discusses the intricate interplay between the Christian imagination and art. He reveals how literary giants like Flannery O'Connor and J.R.R. Tolkien intertwine their faith with creativity, exploring themes of hope and redemption. Hain also contrasts the beauty of creation with the depths of despair found in various literary visions. His insights highlight the transformative power of storytelling and the diverse expressions of Catholic spirituality that enrich our understanding of life and faith.
Jul 21, 2025 • 58min
Are Science and Faith Compatible? I Prof. Karin Öberg
Karin Öberg, a Harvard astronomy professor specializing in astrochemistry, discusses the intriguing harmony between science and faith. She explores historical conflicts, referencing Galileo and Aquinas, while addressing common misconceptions about their compatibility. Öberg maintains that both realms pursue the same truth, emphasizing how scientific understanding enriches theological insights, particularly in relation to creation and the Big Bang. She also highlights how engaging with nature can deepen our connection to the divine.
Jul 18, 2025 • 44min
Woman as Companion and as Mother | Sr. Elinor Gardner, O.P.
Sr. Elinor Gardner, an Affiliate Assistant Professor of Philosophy at the University of Dallas, delves into the sacred vocation of women as companions and mothers. She draws on Edith Stein’s insights to emphasize femininity as divinely gifted, highlighting its nurturing essence in both family and career. The discussion spans the historical roles of women, advocating for the integration of feminine virtues in everyday life. Gardner also reflects on St. Monica's maternal prudence, illustrating her resilience and unwavering faith while raising Augustine.
Jul 17, 2025 • 42min
True Fatherhood as Archetype of Masculine Virtue | Prof. John Cuddeback
In this enlightening discussion, John Cuddeback, a seasoned Professor of Philosophy known for his insights on virtue and fatherhood, dives into the essence of true fatherhood as a cornerstone of masculine virtue. He examines the unique challenges of fatherhood and its essential role in shaping individuals and society. Topics include the distinction between authentic strength and superficial authority, the importance of prudence, and the integral connection between chastity and effective parenting, illustrated through figures like Joseph of Nazareth.
Jul 16, 2025 • 47min
Household as Natural Revelation of Masculinity and Femininity | Prof. John Cuddeback
In this insightful discussion, Professor John Cuddeback, an esteemed philosophy educator at Christendom College, dives into the household as a reflection of masculinity and femininity. He highlights the vital roles of fatherhood and motherhood while emphasizing the beautiful complementarity between men and women. Cuddeback explores how virtue shapes identity and love, using the Parable of the Prodigal Son to illustrate unconditional love and hope. He delves into the generative essence of gender and challenges the distortions of personal suffering on our understanding of these vital concepts.
8 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 42min
The Importance of Friendship in Marriage | Dr. Nathaniel Peters and Prof. Jane Peters
Dr. Nathaniel Peters, Director of the Morningside Institute, and Prof. Jane Peters, a Religious Studies scholar, delve into the profound connection between friendship and marriage. They discuss how nurturing friendships within marriage fosters personal growth and enriches the marital bond. The duo emphasizes marriage as a transformative sacrament reflecting Christ's love, the joy of shared experiences, and the vital role of raising children together. Their insights combine historical theology with practical anecdotes, offering a fresh perspective on marital virtues.
