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 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.
Mar 25, 2019 • 60min
The Practice and Theory of Imagination in C.S. Lewis | Dr. Robert Royal
Dr. Robert Royal discusses C.S. Lewis' Christian imagination, the impact of his works, exploring spirituality in literature, vivid imagery in 'The Great Divorce,' the contrast between heaven and hell, the essence of literature in art, the Narnia stories' themes of transcendence, and the connection between past happiness and future aspirations.
Mar 22, 2019 • 54min
Tolkien’s Wizardry: How Metaphysics Molded Middle-Earth | Prof. Robert Koons
Prof. Robert Koons, an expert in Tolkien's works, discusses the influence of metaphysics on Middle-Earth. Topics include the privation theory of evil, divine providence, and free will. The conversation also explores Jackson's faithfulness to Tolkien, unintended consequences of influence, compromises in Tolkien's works, and the evolution of philosophy and theology in literature.
5 snips
Mar 21, 2019 • 1h 8min
A Pilgrim’s Progress: The Christian Imagination of Flannery O’Connor| Prof. Raymond Hain
Prof. Raymond Hain discusses Flannery O'Connor's Christian imagination, highlighting themes of grace, redemption, and suffering in comparison to authors like Tolkien and Lewis. The podcast explores O'Connor's unique writing style, characters' journey towards salvation, and the concept of eucatastrophe in her stories.
Mar 20, 2019 • 38min
Who Am I To Judge? Politics and Moral Relativism | Prof. Michael Gorman
Expert in politics and moral relativism, Prof. Michael Gorman delves into the implications of moral relativism in social and political life, highlighting the importance of embracing objective truths and ethical principles over a relativistic worldview.
Mar 18, 2019 • 57min
Why Did God Become Man? | Prof. Michael Gorman
Prof. Michael Gorman discusses the reasons behind Christ's incarnation, historical heresies, theological implications of the incarnation and atonement, divine knowledge vs. human limitations, and the paradox of God's chosen redemption method.
