Fr. Andrew Hofer, O.P., a professor at the Dominican House of Studies and an expert on patristics, dives deep into St. Augustine's profound impact on concepts of war, justice, and peace. He unpacks Augustine's transformation from Manichaean to influential bishop, highlighting a pivotal conversion moment. The discussion emphasizes Augustine's beliefs on peace, the moral necessity of just causes in war, and critiques modern interpretations of his doctrines. His insights reveal Augustine's legacy as a cornerstone of moral theology in contemporary discourse.

Stephen Meredith, a professor at the University of Chicago specializing in pathology and the humanities, dives deep into the connection between disease and the problem of evil. He discusses the case of a sickle cell anemia patient, raising theological questions about genetic conditions. The conversation traverses Dostoevsky's *The Brothers Karamazov*, contrasting Ivan's and Alyosha's takes on love and suffering. Meredith delves into original sin's implications on health and morality, advocating for a thoughtful perspective on human fragility and societal responsibilities.

In this enlightening discussion, Professor Steven J. Jensen, an expert in bioethics and moral psychology, tackles the complex ethical dilemmas surrounding organ transplantation. He offers a historical overview, shedding light on the implications of brain death as a criterion for organ donation. Jensen delves into the controversies of consent laws, the potential exploitation of vulnerable populations, and the alarming issues of organ trafficking, particularly in places like China. His insights provoke a deeper understanding of the moral landscape in this critical field.

Fr. Kevin Flannery, S.J., a philosophy professor at the Pontifical Gregorian University and expert in Aquinas's moral theory, dives deep into the nuances of natural inclinations and passions. He explores Aquinas's insights on natural law and the crucial role of reason in distinguishing true inclinations from passion-driven impulses. With references to Aristotle, Fr. Flannery emphasizes that passions only gain moral relevance when guided by reason and will, shedding light on moral reasoning's intricate layers in human behavior.

Joseph Trabbic, an associate professor of philosophy at Ave Maria University, discusses the rational foundations for belief in God. He explores how all beings depend on God for their essence, likening this relationship to a lamp powered by extension cords. Trabbic delves into the complexities of the Trinity, asserting that belief in a non-contingent creator is grounded in reason and evidence, while expanding on the Nicene Creed's portrayal of God. His insights bridge metaphysics and moral philosophy, enriching the conversation about faith and existence.

In this enlightening discussion, Sr. Elinor Gardner, O.P., an Affiliate Assistant Professor of Philosophy at the University of Dallas, delves into the complexities of capital punishment from a Catholic perspective. She explores John Paul II's encyclical, emphasizing evolving views on non-violence and moral opposition. Key topics include theological insights on human dignity, historical tensions within the Church regarding execution, and the importance of advocating for life-affirming alternatives. Gardner’s expertise sheds light on a nuanced debate that resonates with contemporary ethical concerns.

Join Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P., a renowned Dominican scholar, and Prof. Joseph Capizzi, Dean of Theology at the Catholic University of America and expert in social and political theology, as they dive into Just War Theory. They discuss the moral complexities of warfare, the role of forgiveness in both personal and national contexts, and the importance of post-conflict reconciliation. Capizzi shares insights on historical examples and the necessity of recognizing all parties as rational to foster sustainable peace, challenging listeners to rethink the ethics of conflict.

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.

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.

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.