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
Dec 22, 2020 • 47min
What is Good Music? What Good is Music? | Prof. Michael Dickson
Prof. Michael Dickson, an expert in music theory and composition, explores the relationship between beauty and good music, challenges traditional views on contemporary music, delves into the great theory of beauty in Western philosophy, and discusses how musical practices define the integrity and beauty of pieces of music.
Dec 19, 2020 • 1h 13min
What the COVID Pandemic Teaches Us about the Honored but Humble Role of Medicine | Prof. Farr Curlin
Prof. Farr Curlin discusses the lessons from COVID-19, highlighting medicine's role in caring for vulnerable populations. The podcast explores trust in medical science, risks of COVID-19, ethical dilemmas for Catholic priests, and the importance of evidence-based reasoning amidst challenges.
Dec 17, 2020 • 42min
St. Joseph: The Savior of Our Savior | Fr. Basil Cole, O.P.
Fr. Basil Cole, O.P., a Dominican priest, discusses the significant role of St. Joseph in shaping Jesus for his redemptive mission. They explore St. Joseph's protective and guiding role, his impact on the Holy Family and Christianity, as well as the evolving devotion to him over centuries. The podcast also delves into literature on St. Joseph, debates on his marriage with Mary, his unique vow of chastity, and his character revealed through personal experiences and prayers.
Dec 16, 2020 • 53min
Are Neuroscience and the Soul Compatible? | Prof. James Madden
Prof. James Madden discusses neuroscience and the soul, highlighting the Aristotelian concept of the soul's complexity beyond visual representation. He explores supervenience, the nature of thoughts, and the meaningful world as a collection of entities shaping our perception. The relationship between material objects and living beings is examined through hylomorphism, emphasizing their composite nature of form, matter, and soul.
Dec 12, 2020 • 1h 26min
The Challenge and Opportunity of Genome Editing | Dr. William Hurlbut
Dr. William Hurlbut, a genome editing expert, discusses the transformative potential of CRISPR-Cas9 technology in genetic modification, the use of CRISPR for treating genetic diseases like sickle cell anemia, the challenges in intervening in genetic conditions, the historical ties of medicine with eugenics, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding human genome editing, emphasizing the need for cautious approach and open discussions on the moral implications.
Dec 10, 2020 • 47min
Wisdom in the Face of Modernity: Is Faith Irrational? | Fr. Dominic Legge, O.P.
Fr. Dominic Legge, O.P., theologian and member of the Dominican Order, discusses the rationality of faith in Christianity. He explores the distinctions between faith and irrational beliefs, the interplay of faith, reason, and belief, and the rationality of faith in Catholic beliefs. The discussion focuses on the Trinity, Eucharist, miracles, and the supernatural aspect of faith.
Dec 8, 2020 • 48min
Saint Albert the Great and the Natural Sciences | Fr. Conor McDonough, O.P.
Fr. Conor McDonough, O.P., discusses Saint Albert the Great's integration of faith and science, challenging misconceptions about the Middle Ages. They explore his impact on the natural sciences, his method of combining Aristotle's theories with sensory experiences, and how his scientific discoveries shaped his theological beliefs. The podcast delves into the resurgence of Aristotelian philosophy in universities and the portrayal of Saint Albert in literature.
Dec 5, 2020 • 52min
Thought in Bliss: St. Thomas on Theological Contemplation | Prof. Frederick Bauerschmidt
Prof. Frederick Bauerschmidt discusses St. Thomas's view on contemplation as a path to eternal bliss, drawing on Aristotelian concepts and theological insights. They explore the essence of contemplation and theoria, the importance of contemplation in theology, and the significance of Christ's humanity in theological contemplation. The podcast also delves into symbols of birds and frogs in contemplation, contrasts between Aquinas and Descartes in the 17th century, and perspectives on inscape, contemplation, and God's essence.
Dec 3, 2020 • 47min
Prudence in Action | Fr. Dominic Verner, O.P.
Fr. Dominic Verner, O.P., a Dominican priest, discusses the concept of prudence in decision-making. Topics include overcoming decision paralysis, the practical syllogism, aligning choices with personal values, seeking guidance through prayer, and reflecting on life's impermanence to prompt decision-making.
Dec 1, 2020 • 45min
Commanding Prudence | Fr. Aquinas Guilbeau, O.P.
Fr. Aquinas Guilbeau, a Dominican priest, discusses the importance of prudence in decision-making and spiritual discernment. He explores the steps of prudence and provides examples highlighting its role in guiding actions towards achieving goals.
