The Thomistic Institute

Prof. Gina Maria Noia discusses quality of life judgments in healthcare, exploring Catholic perspectives, ethical considerations, and the impact on treatment decisions. She emphasizes the importance of assessing an individual's well-being and intrinsic worth in medical care.

Prof. Edward Feser discusses the immortality of the soul and immateriality of the mind, addressing challenges to materialism, the immaterial nature of rational faculties, objections to the immateriality of the mind, and the connection between defending intellect's immaterial nature and the soul's immortality.

This lecture was given on February 23rd, 2024, at Ave Maria University.For more information on upcoming events, visit us at thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-eventsAbout the Speaker:Sister Anna Wray is a native of Connecticut and a member of the Dominican Sisters of Saint Cecilia of Nashville, TN. Sister received her phD in philosophy from The Catholic University of America, having written her dissertation on Aristotle’s account of the activity of contemplation. Sister is an assistant professor on the faculty of CUA's School of Philosophy in Washington, DC, where she regularly teaches courses in the history of philosophy, logic, rhetoric, ethics, philosophy of religion, and philosophical psychology. She is also an adjunct professor for Aquinas College, where she teaches metaphysics and epistemology to her sisters in formation. When time permits, sister enjoys the occasional trip that allows her to speak to (and with) others who share her loves.

Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P. & Prof. Michael Pakaluk discuss Aristotle's views on friendship & virtue, the impact of family on virtue development, importance of patience in relationships, healing power of sacrifice & forgiveness, rejection of hierarchy, love vs. justice in friendships, and relevance of natural law in society.

Prof. Christopher Kaczor discusses the quest for happiness through positive psychology and meaningful relationships. The podcast explores the intersection of positive psychology and Christianity, addressing sin, weakness of will, and strategies to strengthen willpower. Managing difficult situations with practical strategies like expressing gratitude and acts of service is emphasized for overall well-being.

In this discussion, Professor Christopher Kaczor, a renowned Fulbright Scholar from the Catholic University of America, dives into the intricate connection between philosophy, theology, and psychology, particularly around happiness. He shares insights on the transformative power of gratitude and forgiveness drawn from personal experiences and positive psychology. Kaczor emphasizes the role of confession and family love in achieving happiness, and offers practical strategies for strengthening willpower against sin while navigating life's complexities.

Fr. Raphael Mary Salzillo, O.P. discusses Aristotle's insights on human nature and happiness, the relationship between cognitive and appetitive powers, the role of prudence and virtues in pursuit of happiness, and the significance of God's love and grace in Christian happiness.

Prof. Christopher Kaczor discusses happiness, debunking myths, faith's role, forgiveness, relationships, loving kindness, embracing spirituality, and psychology limits in achieving a good and happy life.

Prof. Chris Kaczor discusses the four levels of happiness - hedonist, egoist, altruist, and altruist of faith. He explores the pursuit of success, the impact of money on happiness, and the progression towards altruistic joy. Kaczor highlights the importance of genuine love and friendships in attaining true happiness, while emphasizing that ultimate perfection can only be found in God.

Prof. Paul Gondreau discusses Catholic view on marriage, human sexuality, and anthropology. Topics include materialist anthropology's impact, Catholic view on body-soul unity, sacrament of marriage, raising children, divine empowerment for happy marriages, and guarantee of grace in matrimony.