The Thomistic Institute

Thomas Prugl discusses how Thomas Aquinas prioritized the literal sense of scriptures, emphasizing themes of poverty, eschatology, and divine providence in the book of Job. The podcast explores Aquinas' views on Job as a wise man tested by God, contrasting them with Olivi's spiritual interpretations. It also delves into apologetic theology and the life of Peter of John Olivi, highlighting their different approaches to scripture and divine providence.

Gregory LaNave discusses the harmonious rivalry between Franciscan and Dominican intellectual traditions, exploring whether theology is speculative or practical science. The debate delves into affective nature, the distinction between wisdom from sacred scripture and God, and the affective role in theological inquiry.

Philosophy expert Timothy Noone discusses Aquinas and Scotus' views on analogy and univocity, exploring their implications for theological thinking and epistemic access to divine perfections. The podcast also delves into Aristotle's concepts of genus, unity, and diversity, as well as the exploration of substance and transcendental notions in metaphysics.

Msgr. Wippel, a theologian, discusses medieval thinkers' interpretations of a real distinction between beings and existence. Topics include essence and existence debates influenced by Avicenna, Albert's concepts of 'conga' and 'essay,' varying viewpoints on angelic beings' essence, and Aquinas's unique view on the significance of 'esse' as the act of all acts.

V. Bradley Lewis, an expert on natural rights, discusses Aquinas's views on natural law and rights, exploring the transition from community-focused virtues to individual rights. The podcast delves into different types of rights, theories of rights, and the relationship between natural law and natural rights. It also examines the Thomistic perspective on natural rights, including discussions on religious freedom, private property, and modern challenges.

Chad Pecknold, an expert on political theology, delves into the essence of politics in human nature, the impact of political identities on societal divisions, and the importance of embracing our true political nature for the common good. He discusses the teachings of St. Augustine's City of God, emphasizing the distinction between the city of man and the city of God, and highlighting the role of the church in upholding societal well-being. Pecknold advocates for redirecting societal aims towards more perfect goals and purifying political conversations, while exploring the influence of geographical size and attachment to land in political concepts.

Fr. Nicanor Austriaco, OP, discusses the compatibility between Thomistic theology and Darwinian biology, exploring topics like genetic diversity, interpreting sacred scriptures, defining species, evolution of language, and origins of human culture and language.

Fr. Andrew Hofer, OP, discusses the similarities between Christ's life and our own, emphasizing the importance of aligning our loves with His. Topics include Christ's unconditional love, balancing joy and sorrow, spiritual teachings on joy and sorrow, and maintaining gratitude in prosperity and affliction.

Fr. Andrew Hofer, OP, a Dominican priest, discusses the profound relationship between joy, sorrow, and love in shaping human experiences. He explores the concept of charity, divine love, and Christ's sacrifices for humanity, highlighting the connection between joys, sorrows, and love in our own lives.

Philosopher and author Christopher Kaczor delves into Aristotle's views on friendship and virtues, exploring the characteristics of genuine friends and the impact of friendships on behavior and happiness. The discussion also covers the influence of choosing friends wisely and fostering meaningful relationships, along with the essence of friendship with God and the importance of practical wisdom.