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 17, 2024 • 1h 1min
Is Sanctity for Everyone, Even for me? | Fr. John Mark Solitario
Fr. John Mark Solitario, a dedicated priest from St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, discusses the universal call to holiness. He emphasizes the vital role of divine grace in personal sanctity and the Church's mission. Solitario highlights the mystical connection between Christ and believers, illustrating how each member contributes to spiritual health. He also pays tribute to Pier Giorgio Frassati, showcasing the impact of prayer and service on faith development. This lively conversation inspires listeners to deepen their relationship with God through daily spiritual practices.
10 snips
Dec 16, 2024 • 45min
Aristotelian Philosophy and the Quantum Revolution | Prof. Robert Koons
In a captivating discussion, Professor Robert Koons, a prominent philosopher at the University of Texas at Austin, delves into the synergy between Aristotelian philosophy and quantum science. He critiques modern materialism and advocates for a metaphysical view of reality. Koons unravels the complexities of quantum mechanics, explaining concepts like particle-wave duality and quantum entanglement, and argues for a cohesive understanding of reality that integrates consciousness and free will. His insights remind us that philosophy and science can enrich one another.
8 snips
Dec 13, 2024 • 38min
Can Beauty Save the World? | Prof. Raymond Hain
Raymond Hain, Associate Professor of Philosophy at Providence College, explores the connections between beauty, art, and faith. He discusses how a Caravaggio painting invites contemplation on beauty's role in salvation. Delving into medieval thought, Hain highlights St. Thomas Aquinas's views on beauty as essential to joy. The tension between poetry and philosophy is examined, along with J.R.R. Tolkien's concept of 'sub-creation.' Ultimately, he presents beauty as a vital link to the divine and essential for a fulfilling life.
6 snips
Dec 12, 2024 • 46min
The Song of Songs: Human or Divine Eros? | Prof. Nina Sophie Heereman
Nina Sophie Heereman, an Associate Professor for Sacred Scripture at St. Patrick’s Seminary, explores the deep intertwining of love and spirituality found in the Song of Songs. She discusses how this ancient text acts as a profound expression of divine love, elevating human desire beyond eroticism. Heereman also addresses contemporary interpretations of gender roles within this spiritual intimacy, revealing insights rooted in both Jewish and Christian traditions. Her insights promise a fresh take on an age-old text, making it relevant for today's seekers.
Dec 11, 2024 • 40min
In Medio Ecclesiae: The Importance of Embodying Wisdom According to Proverbs and Sirach | Fr. Jordan Schmidt, O.P.
Fr. Jordan Schmidt, an assistant professor of Sacred Scripture, discusses the crucial themes of wisdom and folly in Proverbs and Sirach. He highlights the communal nature of wisdom, emphasizing its importance for character formation in young leaders. The episode portrays 'woman wisdom' as a guiding force while contrasting her with the dangers of 'woman folly.' Fr. Schmidt also underscores wise leadership's role in shaping society and the significance of intentional community relationships to cultivate spiritual growth and discernment.
10 snips
Dec 10, 2024 • 47min
Scripture as a Source of Wisdom in Catholic Theology | Fr. Jordan Schmidt, O.P.
Fr. Jordan Schmidt, an Assistant Professor of Sacred Scripture with a PhD in biblical studies, sheds light on the profound concept of wisdom within Catholic theology. He reflects on personal experiences that shaped his understanding of wisdom, emphasizing its accessibility. The discussion reveals wisdom as a crucial element of scripture that nurtures both practical living and a deeper relationship with God. Schmidt advocates for engaging with biblical texts as a means to develop wisdom, highlighting its transformative role in Christian life.
Dec 9, 2024 • 49min
'The Lord of All Loves Her': Mary’s Sapiential Garments | Prof. Nina Sophie Heereman
Nina Sophie Heereman, an Associate Professor for Sacred Scripture at St. Patrick’s Seminary & University, dives into the profound relationship between Mary and biblical wisdom. She examines the feminine portrayal of wisdom and its connections to Christ, emphasizing the soul's journey towards divine union through love. Heereman explores Mary’s unique role as the embodiment of wisdom in Christian theology, illuminating her significance in the redemption narrative. This engaging discussion merges theology with spirituality, offering deep insights into Marian devotion.
Dec 6, 2024 • 52min
So Death Doth Touch the Resurrection: Death and Human Nature | Sr. Elinor Gardner, O.P.
Sr. Elinor Gardner, O.P., an Affiliate Assistant Professor of Philosophy at the University of Dallas, leads a thought-provoking discussion on death and human nature. She delves into Clarence Darrow's philosophical arguments against the soul and immortality, sparking a debate on empirical evidence versus ancient beliefs. The conversation also highlights St. Thomas Aquinas’s views on the immortal soul and the significance of abstract reasoning. Gardner explores early Christian beliefs about bodily resurrection, illuminating how they foster hope for eternal life.
Dec 5, 2024 • 41min
What Does "Creation" Really Mean? w/ Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P. & Dr. William Carroll
Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P. hosts Dr. William Carroll, an expert in intellectual history and the history of science. They unpack St. Thomas Aquinas’s profound insights on creation, discussing how it intertwines with time and cosmology. The conversation reveals the historical tensions between faith and science, particularly through the Galileo-Inquisition episode. They also explore the concept of 'conceptual therapy' to tackle misconceptions in cosmology and clarify the nature of creation ex nihilo, enhancing our understanding of the relationship between existence and creation.
Dec 4, 2024 • 39min
If Your Head Causes You to Sin | Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P.
Fr. Gregory Pine dives into the dangers of undisciplined thinking and the need for structured thought rooted in Catholic tradition. He explores St. Thomas Aquinas' profound influence, advocating for a harmonious blend of faith and reason. Pine critiques modernity's obsession with immediate results, promoting a contemplative approach to reality. He emphasizes the importance of divine engagement and the transformative power of grace, urging listeners to find meaning in a world often steeped in nihilism.
