The Thomistic Institute

Fr. Conor McDonough, O.P. discusses St. Thomas Aquinas' philosophical ideas on atheism, necessary beings, God's properties, the problem of evil, human nature, decision-making, morality, and natural law. The podcast also explores N-Atheism's impact on morality, freedom, and the search for meaning in a godless universe, with a poetic reflection on spiritual renewal for atheists.

Expert on theology and ethics, Gloria Frost, discusses the philosophical debate on evil in a world governed by a good God, exploring Aquinas' perspective on evil as a lack of good. The podcast delves into the transformative power of suffering, personal growth, and forgiveness, highlighting the significance of suffering in fostering love and becoming better individuals.

A panel discussion on Christianity and freedom led by speakers from the Thomistic Institute, delving into concepts like free will, consciousness, and rationality. The discussion explores the implications of these ideas for human uniqueness and contrasts with artificial intelligence. Experiments disprove hologram universe theory, shedding light on Christian ethics and eternal consequences of choices. The conversation also covers the complexity of will, reasoning, and free will, touching on the immateriality of the mind, and the integration of philosophy and theology. Historical and theological perspectives on free will within Catholicism are explored, emphasizing personal experiences and the uncertain nature of human choice.

Thomas Pfau, an expert on the philosophy of Cusa and Hopkins, explores the concept of freedom in modern anthropology, delving into the transcendent dimension of human freedom. He discusses contemplation as a path to liberation from selfhood and desire, the transformative impact of mystical contemplation through iconic gaze, and the symbolism of a poem representing theological themes. Pfau also analyzes the relationship between visible images and the divine, emphasizing contemplative freedom and ethical responsibility.

Giuseppe Mazzotta, an expert in Dante and St. Augustine, explores the themes of liberty and grace in Dante's Divine Comedy, focusing on key interactions between liberty and grace in Purgatorio and Paradise. The discussion also delves into Dante's beliefs in free will, moral autonomy, the rejection of naturalism, and the relationship between love and rational judgment in his works.

Fr. James Brent OP, a Dominican priest, explores Aquinas' views on human freedom and free will. The podcast delves into the essence and properties of free will, contrasting modern unguided choices with Aquinas' perspective. It discusses human agency driven by well-being and happiness, the hindrances to achieving well-being in nature, and the impact of ignorance and passion on ethical decision-making. The narrative also touches on the relationship between human freedom, love, and the pursuit of true goodness.

Sarah Byers, an expert in early Christian views on freedom under the law, discusses differing perspectives on freedom and moral law in early Christianity, exploring concepts of societal order, rational autonomy, and natural law. The podcast delves into how early Christian thinkers integrated natural law into their ethical and political frameworks, examining the development of natural law and ethics in early Christian authors like Augustine, Origen, and Aquinas. It also explores the influence of early Christian views on ethics, grace, animal behavior, health, and original sin.

Nicholas Healy, an expert in Dostoevsky's 'The Brothers Karamazov,' delves into the themes of love for mankind, belief in God, and human dignity in the novel. He discusses Dostoevsky's tumultuous life journey, translation recommendations, and the importance of seeking forgiveness and communal love in 'The Brothers Karamazov'.

Philosopher and law expert Francis Beckwith discusses the rationality of belief in God, exploring arguments in faith, the concept of God in classical theism, proper functions and reasoning, abstract objects, and philosophical arguments for God's existence. The podcast emphasizes the harmony between faith and reason in the Catholic approach.

Michael Gorman, an expert in theological studies, discusses the use of similitudes in understanding the Hypostatic Union, exploring Aquinas and Scotus' views. The podcast delves into the limits of understanding theological mysteries, the power of metaphorical language in conveying deep concepts, and embracing diverse perspectives for productive discourse in Catholic theology.