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
Apr 10, 2019 • 1h 16min
Why Did Medieval Christian Thinkers Turn to Islamic Philosophers? | Prof. Thérèse-Anne Druart
Prof. Thérèse-Anne Druart discusses how medieval Christian scholars were influenced by Islamic philosophers like Avicenna in reconciling faith and reason. They explore topics such as God's existence and simplicity, the integration of Islamic and Neoplatonist ideas with Christianity, and the contrasting views on metaphysics, theology, and creation between Islamic and Christian thinkers.
Apr 9, 2019 • 1h 18min
The Catholic Who Invented Human Rights | Prof. Joseph Capizzi
Prof. Joseph Capizzi challenges the claim that human rights began in the 1970s, discussing the historical context of Spanish colonization, Vitoria's theory on jus gentium and natural law, the exclusion of women in early human rights development, the paradox of slavery and human dignity, and the origins of human rights influenced by ancient philosophy and religious beliefs.
Apr 6, 2019 • 50min
Same God? Christian and Islamic Philosophy and Theology | Prof. Thérèse-Anne Druart
Prof. Thérèse-Anne Druart discusses the differences in beliefs about God in Christianity and Islam, focusing on the Trinity and incarnation in Christianity, and the oneness of God in Islam. They compare philosophical approaches and views on creation, exploring analogies like the craftsman analogy and the role of intelligences. The podcast also analyzes the perspectives on continuous creation, including adaptations made by 13th-century Christian theologians.
Apr 5, 2019 • 1h 23min
Does God Exist? | Prof. Alexander Pruss
Philosophy professor Prof. Alexander Pruss discusses the existence of God in relation to causation and infinite regression, touching on paradoxes like Thompson's Lamp. Exploring supernatural concepts and the principle of sufficient reason, he contemplates the infinite and timelessness of God's nature.
Apr 4, 2019 • 1h 9min
Was Luther Right? Indulgences, Purgatory, Saints and All That | Prof. Michael Root
Prof. Michael Root discusses Martin Luther's critiques of church abuses, indulgences, and theological debates. Contrasts Lutheranism with Catholicism on grace, salvation, and ecclesiastical authority. Explores differences in Old Testament scriptures between Protestant and traditional churches.
Apr 3, 2019 • 41min
The Common Good, Political Order and God | Dr. Steve Long
Dr. Steve Long discusses Thomas Aquinas' teachings on the common good, exploring its importance in political society, legal justice, and divine law. He delves into the Catholic perspective on the common good versus private goods, highlighting the connection between individual well-being and human perfection. The podcast also covers topics such as sacrifice, intrinsic and extrinsic common goods, and the foundation of natural law derived from God. Additionally, there is a discussion on religious liberty, politics, and divine law, emphasizing the balance between individual conscience and the state's duties.
Apr 2, 2019 • 43min
Can the Separation of Church and State be Sustained? | Prof. Paul Rahe
Prof. Paul Rahe, an expert in political theory and history, delves into the historical context of the separation of church and state, exploring religious conflicts and political order. The podcast discusses religious tolerance, government's role in promoting peace, and the evolution of limited government. It also delves into the enduring connection between politics, religion, and totalitarianism across civilizations, drawing insights from ancient writings like Aristotle's ethics.
Mar 30, 2019 • 47min
Philosophy, Beauty, and Music | Fr. Gregory Pine, OP
Fr. Gregory Pine, OP, discusses the intricate nature of beauty, art's ability to communicate profound truths, the relationship between art and the artist, the role of human senses in recognizing beauty, and the divine connection through art and music, highlighting the transformative power of artistic expression.
Mar 29, 2019 • 1h
Biotechnology, Suffering, and Human Aspiration | Dr. William Hurlbut
Dr. William Hurlbut, an expert in biotechnology and human ethics, discusses the ethical considerations in biotechnology, the changing dynamics of the doctor-patient relationship, the societal impact of gene editing technology, and the spiritual significance of life in the context of longevity and human aspirations.
Mar 27, 2019 • 1h 23min
The Moral Truth We All Know - Do Good and Avoid Evil | Prof. Jennifer Frey
Philosophy professor Prof. Jennifer Frey discusses moral truth, practical reasoning, virtues, and the importance of seeking truth. Delving into Aquinas' views on morality, she emphasizes moral knowledge and virtues like justice and prudence. Exploring happiness, friendship, and ethical egoism through Aquinas and Aristotle, the discussion also covers the common good, sin, negligence, and moral decision-making.
