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 13, 2018 • 42min
Aquinas's Reception of Aristotle | Reinhard Hütter
Reinhard Hütter discusses Aquinas's engagements with Averroists, delving into the intellect vs. sense debate. The podcast explores Aquinas's interpretation of Aristotle's metaphysics, focusing on intelligible forms and human knowledge. Hütter highlights clashes between philosophical and theological perspectives during the Latin Averroism movement.
Dec 12, 2018 • 56min
Thomas Aquinas and the Greek Fathers for the Renewal of Theology | Fr. Andrew Hofer OP
Fr. Andrew Hofer OP, an expert in Thomas Aquinas and the Greek Fathers for the Renewal of Theology, discusses the integration of Greek and Latin theology, explores Trinitarian theology and tradition, advocates for theological renewal through historical engagement, and delves into the influence of Greek patristic thought in scholasticism.
5 snips
Dec 11, 2018 • 1h 5min
What is the Purpose of Life? Classical and Contemporary Answers | Jennifer Frey
Jennifer Frey discusses classical and contemporary answers on the purpose of life. Topics include existentialist philosophy, pursuit of happiness, connection between meaning and happiness, role of form in defining purpose and goodness, perspectives on happiness and fulfilling life, contrasting hedonism with meaningful objectives, achieving ultimate satisfaction through communion with God, and importance of family in politics
Dec 8, 2018 • 1h 3min
Is Free Will an Illusion?| Timothy Pawl
Philosophy professor Timothy Pawl debates determinism, libertarianism, and compatibilism. He delves into Aquinas' perspective on free will, subjective and objective affection, and the illusion of free will. The podcast explores moral responsibility, quantum physics arguments against determinism, and evolutionary ethics in understanding morality.
Dec 6, 2018 • 1h 8min
"Out of this Stony Rubbish" Devastation and Rebirth in Eliot's "The Waste Land" | Thomas Pfau
Literature professor Thomas Pfau discusses T.S. Eliot's journey to faith, atheism commentary, and themes of desolation in 'The Waste Land'. The podcast explores nature depiction in Eliot's poetry, darkness, and hope in his works, as well as self-recognition and human sexuality themes influenced by Dante.
18 snips
Dec 5, 2018 • 1h 10min
The Return of the Strong Gods | Rusty Reno
Renowned author and editor-in-chief Rusty Reno discusses shifts in public consensus, critiques highbrow American press content, explores the post-WWII openness consensus, analyzes challenges of religious nationalism, delves into globalization nuances, and emphasizes the role of nationalism in shaping identities in society.
Dec 4, 2018 • 1h 18min
What Does it Mean to be Human? Neuroscience, Psychology, and Personhood | Daniel De Haan
Neuroscience and psychology expert, Daniel De Haan, discusses the concept of personhood and delves into existential questions about human existence, the significance of preparing for mortality, contrasting views on truth and personhood, and the debate between psychological and animalist perspectives on personhood. The podcast also explores human intuition, artificial creation, and the complexities of understanding the true potential of artificial intelligence and robotics.
Dec 1, 2018 • 57min
What's the Purpose of Life? | Christopher Kaczor
Philosopher and professor Christopher Kaczor discusses the pursuit of happiness beyond wealth, the emptiness of material achievements, and the link between religious participation and well-being. He emphasizes the importance of personal choices, loving relationships, and aligning pursuits with the right priorities in achieving genuine happiness.
Nov 30, 2018 • 28min
The Fellowship of Happiness: Aquinas on the Making of Good Friends | Prof. Michael Pakaluk
Prof. Michael Pakaluk, an expert in Aquinas philosophy, discusses Aquinas' perspective on friendship. They explore the essence of true friendship, distinguishing between love of friendship and love of concupiscence. The podcast emphasizes the importance of loving individuals for who they are, highlighting the rarity and depth of authentic friendships. Insights are provided on forming genuine connections, including friendship with Christ and discerning true friendships.
Nov 29, 2018 • 35min
Fundamental Questions for Ethical Decision Making | Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P.
Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P., an expert in ethical decision making, discusses exploring ethical dilemmas, historical roots of probabilism, syllogisms in decision-making, conscience significance, and the importance of prudence in aligning actions with moral standards.
