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
Oct 1, 2024 • 34min
Holding Fast to the Word of Life: The Biblical Roots of Lectio Divina | Fr. Stephen Ryan O.P
Fr. Stephen Ryan O.P., a Boston-born priest and expert in Scripture, delves into the rich tradition of Lectio Divina. He emphasizes its importance for personal connection with God, contrasting it with Eastern meditation practices. The discussion highlights the transformative power of Scripture and offers practical tips for cultivating a consistent prayer routine. Fr. Ryan encourages listeners to engage deeply with the Word, using reflection and prayer to enrich their spiritual lives and build a stronger relationship with the divine.
9 snips
Sep 30, 2024 • 40min
Aquinas on Virtue and the Path to Happiness | Prof. Josh Hochschild & Prof. Jane Sloan Peters
Josh Hochschild is a Professor of Philosophy renowned for his work in medieval ethics, and Jane Sloan Peters is an Assistant Professor specializing in biblical interpretation. They delve into Aristotle's take on virtue and the lack of piety in his ethics, contrasting it with Aquinas's views on faith and moral living. The discussion emphasizes the gifts of the Holy Spirit, the role of contemplation for happiness, and how virtues aid in understanding complex theological truths, making the journey to true fulfillment a blend of intellect and divine guidance.
Sep 27, 2024 • 50min
Where Does Electromagnetic Radiation Fit in a Thomistic View of Nature? | Fr. Thomas Davenport, O.P
Fr. Thomas Davenport, O.P., is a professor of philosophy specializing in the philosophy of nature. He delves into the intricate relationship between physics and Thomistic thought, highlighting the complexities of light and electromagnetic radiation. Discussions include the unique properties of light, the role of virtual photons, and how these elements interact with matter. Fr. Davenport emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to understand these phenomena, using examples like the photoelectric effect and the nature of substances such as diamond.
Sep 26, 2024 • 40min
The Moral Role of Wonder and Awe | Prof. David Elliot
Prof. David Elliot, the Grace P. Hobelman Chair in Catholic Moral Theology, dives into the transformative power of wonder and awe. He illustrates how St. Thomas Aquinas's concept of 'admiratio' connects these emotions to moral reflection. The dialogue reveals how wonder and fear interlace to enrich our moral compass and drive intellectual growth. Elliot emphasizes how these emotional experiences are essential for engaging with greatness, reshaping our perspectives on ethics and personal development.
Sep 25, 2024 • 32min
A Theology of Joy in the Valley of Tears | Fr. Andrew Hofer, O.P.
Fr. Andrew Hofer, O.P., a professor of patristics at the Dominican House of Studies, shares profound insights on joy through faith. He emphasizes the significance of the Liturgy and the Easter season, linking joy to reconciliation and the Eucharist. Fr. Hofer explores how suffering can lead to spiritual fulfillment, advocating for reliance on God's grace. He highlights the comforting presence of the Virgin Mary and encourages finding joy in God's eternal promise, contrasting worldly struggles with the joy awaiting in heaven.
Sep 24, 2024 • 43min
Biblical Illuminations of Christ's Revelatory Activity | Fr. Jordan Schmidt, O.P.
Fr. Jordan Schmidt is an assistant professor of Sacred Scripture known for his expertise in biblical studies. He delves into the theological significance of light as it relates to divine revelation in scripture. Fr. Schmidt illustrates how biblical themes of light illuminate the nature of God and culminate in the identity of Jesus Christ. This discussion provides profound insights into how light serves as a metaphor for understanding faith and revelation, enriching listeners' perspectives on the New Testament.
Sep 23, 2024 • 49min
The Sun as a Universal Cause in Aristotelian-Thomistic Tradition | Prof. Catherine Peters
Prof. Catherine Peters, a tenured associate professor at Loyola Marymount University, delves into the significance of the sun in Aristotelian-Thomistic philosophy as a symbol of universal causality. She explores how this concept intersects with contemporary science and metaphysics, advocating for a dialogue between philosophy and scientific inquiry. The discussion emphasizes the implications for human understanding and the fundamental questions surrounding existence, knowledge, and the divine, making medieval thought relevant for modern challenges.
Sep 20, 2024 • 41min
The City of God and the Earthly City: War and Peace | Fr. Andrew Hofer, O.P.
Fr. Andrew Hofer, O.P., a professor of patristics and ancient languages, delves into Augustine’s influential concepts of the 'City of God' and the earthly city. He discusses the moral complexities of just wars and the role of faith in achieving true peace. Fr. Hofer critiques modern interpretations while emphasizing the importance of divine grace over superficial happiness. The conversation artfully weaves together themes of humility, love, and the pursuit of eternal life, providing both contemporary relevance and theological depth.
Sep 19, 2024 • 35min
A Contemporary Catholic Viewpoint on War and Non-Violence | Dr. Gregory Reichberg
Dr. Gregory Reichberg, a philosopher specializing in military ethics and a Research Professor at the Peace Research Institute Oslo, delves into the moral complexities of war and non-violence. He examines Jacques Maritain's insights on just war theory and the role of moral action in political engagement, particularly regarding nuclear deterrence. The discussion also highlights the nuances of courage, contrasting battlefield bravery with the patient resilience of martyrs. Finally, he navigates the evolving perspectives on just and holy war within contemporary Catholic thought.
13 snips
Sep 18, 2024 • 51min
A Thomistic Approach to the Good Life | Prof. George Corbett
George Corbett, a Professor of Theology at the University of St Andrews, delves into a Thomistic approach to ethics, emphasizing the interplay of technology and moral virtues in achieving the good life. He discusses how understanding the true nature of happiness involves a relationship with God and draws from Aristotle and Aquinas. Corbett highlights the importance of cultivating moral virtues through practice and the transformative potential of faith, hope, and love, illustrating how these elements shape our pursuit of genuine fulfillment.
