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 30, 2019 • 1h 12min
On the Evolution of Novelty in Biological History| Fr. Nicanor Austriaco, O.P.
Fr. Nicanor Austriaco, O.P., an expert in biology, discusses the evolution of novelty in biological history, including snake evolution, Hox genes, genetic alterations, and philosophical questions. Topics also cover experiments in evolution, convergent evolution, causality, interdisciplinary discourse, role of form and adaptation, relationship between evolution, theology, and human nature.
Jul 27, 2019 • 1h 6min
Thomistic Natural Philosophy in a Natural Order with a History | Prof. Brian Carl
Philosophy professor Prof. Brian Carl discusses Thomistic Natural Philosophy, challenges to peripatetic cosmology, hypothetical necessity in Aristotelian science, tension between developmental cosmos and Aristotle's thought, agent causality in Thomistic Natural Philosophy, Aristotle's views on reproduction, and the contrast of Aristotle's elemental theory with Thomas's Christian perspective.
Jul 25, 2019 • 1h 8min
Inorganic Substances: Chemical Form and Physical Matter| Prof. Robert Koons
Prof. Robert Koons discusses the alignment of quantum revolution with Aristotle's theories. They delve into forms in Plato and Aristotle, distinguishing token and type substances, and exploring the transition in quantum theory from finite to infinite systems. They also touch on the nature of integral parts and the connection between quantum particles and substances.
Jul 23, 2019 • 1h 1min
The Origins of Water | Dr. Karin Oberg
Dr. Karin Oberg discusses the critical role of water in connecting chemistry and biology, exploring its significance in planet formation and life emergence. The podcast delves into water's unique properties, bonding capabilities, and origins in the solar system, including the possibility of water seeping into grains during formation.
Jul 20, 2019 • 57min
Aristotle against Epicurus: Atoms, Particles & Elements in Thomism | Prof. Matthew Gaetano
Prof. Matthew Gaetano discusses Thomists' defense against Descartes and Gessendi, rejecting atomism in the 17th century. The debate on prime matter and divine power, the importance of structure in Thomism, and the clash between classicism and modern science in the 17th and 18th centuries are explored.
Jul 18, 2019 • 1h 5min
Understanding the Chemical Aspects of the Aristotelian-Thomistic View | Prof. Thomas McLaughlin
Chemistry professor Prof. Thomas McLaughlin discusses the Aristotelian-Thomistic view, focusing on elements, material cause, indivisibility, qualities, transformations, and virtual presence. The podcast delves into the unique decompositions in mixtures, comparison with modern chemistry, and Aristotle's emphasis on observable phenomena and quantifiability.
Jul 16, 2019 • 1h 13min
The Novelty of Transubstantiation: The Presence of Christ in the Eucharist | Fr. James Brent, O.P.
Fr. James Brent, O.P. discusses the doctrine of transubstantiation in the Eucharist, exploring themes of Christ's presence, friendship, and communion. He contrasts perspectives on the real presence of Christ, delves into Aquinas' view on accidents, and emphasizes worship through Christ's sacrifice. The conversation touches on the challenges of modern science to the belief in the Eucharist and the effects of sacraments on spiritual growth.
Jul 13, 2019 • 1h 11min
Prudence and the Moral Virtues | Prof. Fred Freddoso
Prof. Fred Freddoso, an expert in moral philosophy, discusses the importance of considering the broader context in decision-making. The podcast explores the history of moral theory, parental influence on children's moral development, the role of prudence in decision-making, and the impact of prudence within the Christian narrative. It also delves into the progression towards a virtuous life through the cultivation of virtues and integration into the Christian framework.
Jul 11, 2019 • 1h 16min
Are There Intrinsically Evil Acts? | Prof. Steven Long
Professor Steven Long, an expert in ethics and philosophy, discusses Thomas's perspective on natural law, intention, and human actions. The podcast delves into the complexities of moral actions, intentions, and the concept of intrinsically evil acts, using examples like sacrilege and adultery to illustrate the intricate relationship between actions, intentions, and moral evaluation.
Jul 10, 2019 • 1h 16min
What is the Nature of the Will? | Prof. Edward Feser
Philosopher Prof. Edward Feser discusses the nature of the will, critiquing determinism and exploring the unique powers of substances. He delves into the relationship between the will and intellect, debunking misconceptions and discussing Aquinas' perspective on free will. The podcast contrasts Aristotelian Thomistic views with naturalist materialist philosophy on intellect and free will.
