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
Nov 6, 2024 • 48min
Judging Truth: Moral Intolerance or the Dictatorship of Relativism | Fr. Dominic Legge, O.P.
Fr. Dominic Legge, a theologian and director at the Thomistic Institute, dives into the tension between moral judgments and societal perceptions. He critiques the stigma attached to judgment in academic circles while exploring St. Thomas Aquinas's insights on morality. With humor, he discusses moral culpability through a cookie mix-up, highlighting the nuances of intention. He further addresses the contradictions of relativism and the need for universal moral truths, emphasizing rational discourse as vital for authentic moral judgments.
Nov 5, 2024 • 39min
Helping Patients Who Are Dying or Helping Patients to Die? | Prof. Farr Curlin
Farr Curlin, a prominent figure in medical humanities and palliative care at Duke University, delves into the ethical complexities of end-of-life decisions. He discusses the critical balance between alleviating suffering and honoring dignity in hospice care. Curlin emphasizes the importance of personal agency and spiritual engagement during the dying process. He also addresses the contentious issue of physician-assisted suicide, examining patient autonomy and the societal implications, particularly for marginalized groups, advocating for compassionate care over normalization of death.
Nov 4, 2024 • 53min
Is it Wrong to Want the Bad Guy to Suffer? A Christian Approach to Vengeance | Sr. Elinor Gardner, O.P.
Sister Elinor Gardner, O.P., an expert in Aquinas' ethical and political philosophy, dives into the moral complexities of vengeance from a Christian perspective. She challenges the notion that justice requires punishment, emphasizing the transformative power of forgiveness. Delving into Augustine's views, she discusses the importance of distinguishing between justice and vindictiveness. The conversation highlights how true love may involve desiring consequences for our loved ones’ actions, intertwining suffering, justice, and compassion.
Nov 1, 2024 • 45min
The Catholic Vision of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings | Prof. Paul Gondreau
Paul Gondreau, a theology professor at Providence College specializing in the Catholic vision of Tolkien, dissects the rich spiritual themes in 'The Lord of the Rings.' He reveals how Tolkien’s worldview shapes the narrative, interweaving elements like the Eucharist, friendship, and divine grace. Gondreau highlights characters embodying Christ-like qualities, showcasing the necessity of divine assistance in moral struggles. Through this lens, he illustrates the profound Catholic ethos beneath the epic tale, emphasizing mercy and the fight against evil.
Oct 31, 2024 • 1h 13min
What Can an Adulteress Teach Us About Happiness? Tolstoy's Anna Karenina and the Project of Literature | Sr. Jane Dominic Laurel, O.P.
In this engaging discussion, Sr. Jane Dominic Laurel, a Dominican Sister and theology professor, explores the profound insights that literature, especially from classics like 'Anna Karenina,' offers on moral discernment and the human experience. She delves into themes of love, self-sacrifice, and the impact of cultural narratives on personal growth. With references to 'Little House on the Prairie,' she emphasizes how stories can shape virtue and moral imagination, revealing the intricate dance between love, loyalty, and the missteps that can arise in pursuit of happiness.
Oct 30, 2024 • 32min
C. S. Lewis and Aquinas: Was Lewis Influenced by Thomism? | Prof. Peter Kreeft
Peter Kreeft, a philosophy professor at Boston College and prolific author, explores the intriguing connections between C.S. Lewis and Thomas Aquinas. He discusses how Lewis’s literary background intertwines with Thomistic influences, shedding light on their shared views of moral law and objective truth. Kreeft navigates the philosophical and theological divergences regarding scripture and the afterlife, while emphasizing ecumenical dialogue. Ultimately, he highlights their mutual respect for truth despite differing religious perspectives, creating a rich intellectual tapestry.
Oct 29, 2024 • 45min
Tolkein's Philosophy | Prof. Robert Koons
Robert Koons, a philosophy professor at the University of Texas at Austin, delves into J.R.R. Tolkien's philosophical influences. He discusses how the Inklings and Owen Barfield shaped Tolkien's Christianized Aristotelian thought. The conversation touches on themes of goodness, evil, and divine providence in 'The Lord of the Rings.' Koons also explores the impact of Tolkien's work on modern culture, its ecological and spiritual implications, and critiques of literary adaptations. The discussion highlights Tolkien's dual legacy in philosophy and society.
Oct 28, 2024 • 37min
Flannery O'Connor and St. Thomas Aquinas on the Future of Catholic Fiction | Prof. Patrick Callahan
Patrick Callahan, Director of the Newman Institute for Catholic Thought & Culture, discusses Flannery O'Connor's unique literary path influenced by her Southern upbringing and struggles with lupus. He reveals her dual identity as a 'hillbilly Thomist,' highlighting the impact of St. Thomas Aquinas on her beliefs and writing. The conversation dives into Aquinas's philosophy of beauty and the practical intellect, as well as O'Connor's complex style that challenges idealism, offering a rich examination of authenticity in art.
Oct 25, 2024 • 52min
Exploring Finitude: Weakness, Suffering, and Faith in Isaac of Nineveh | Dr. Valentina Duca
Valentina Duca, a postdoctoral researcher specializing in 7-8th century East-Syriac mysticism, dives into the life of Isaac of Nineveh, a pivotal 7th-century monk. They discuss how suffering and human weakness are essential in the spiritual journey, transforming personal struggles into paths towards deeper faith. Duca highlights Isaac's teachings on 'bearing' life's challenges, merging monastic wisdom with modern psychological insights. She also emphasizes compassion and the significance of recognizing our limitations in deepening our relationship with the divine.
Oct 24, 2024 • 45min
Why the Demons Fell | Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P.
Explore the intriguing role of angels and demons in Catholic theology, revealing their connection to God's nature. Discover the parallels between the fall of angels and humanity, shedding light on moral choices and responsibilities. Dive into Dante's vision of spiritual sins like pride and envy, and the importance of classic texts in personal reflection. Embrace the uniqueness of your journey through divine love, and understand how God's grace transforms lives, encouraging spiritual growth and the release of anxiety.
