The Thomistic Institute

Dr. John Haldane examines the themes of evil and vice as portrayed in film and entertainment, utilizing philosophical concepts and specific examples like The Exorcist and Apocalypse Now, to analyze the ethical dimensions of these representations.This lecture was given on November 28th, 2024, at University of Edinburgh.For more information on upcoming events, visit us at thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-eventsAbout the Speaker:John Haldane is the Newton Rayzor Sr Distinguished Professor of Philosophy at Baylor University, Texas, and Professor of Moral Philosophy, and Senior Fellow of the Centre for Ethics and Public Affairs, at the University of St Andrews, Scotland. He is also Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh and Chair of the Royal Institute of Philosophy, London. As well as his many philosophical writings, he has contributed to the Times and the Guardian, and broadcast often with the BBC UK and World, and ABC Australia. In 2016 he was named by Best Schools one of the ‘50 Most Influential Living Philosophers’.Keywords: Apocalypse Now, Aristotelian Ethics, Courage, Evil, Exorcist, Film, Heart of Darkness, Hollywood, Justice, Prudence, Virtue And Vice

Fr. Gregory Pine explores the virtue of prudence as practical wisdom, emphasizing its role in navigating human limitations, ordering practical life, and integrating intellect and appetite to achieve human flourishing.This lecture was given on March 12th, 2024, at Stanford University.For more information on upcoming events, visit us at thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-eventsAbout the Speaker:Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P. is an adjunct professor of dogmatic theology at the Dominican House of Studies and an Assistant Director of the Thomistic Institute. He is the author of a few books including Prudence: Choose Confidently, Live Boldly. His writing also appears in Ascension’s Catholic Classics, Magnificat, and Aleteia. He is a regular contributor to the podcasts Pints with Aquinas, Catholic Classics, The Thomistic Institute, and Godsplaining.Keywords: Appetites, Charity, Christian Virtues, Fortitude, Human Flourishing, Moral Virtues, Practical Reason, Prudence, Temperance, Virtue Ethics

In this thought-provoking discussion, Professor Stephen C. Meredith, a renowned expert from the University of Chicago, delves into the philosophical complexities surrounding disease and the problem of evil. He examines historical perspectives from Aquinas and Leibniz, connecting them to modern issues like genetics and evolution. The talk covers poignant topics such as the moral implications of suffering, the interplay between cancer and original sin, and the urgent need for compassion towards the vulnerable. Meredith's insights blend science, philosophy, and ethics in a compelling narrative.

Professor Adam Eitel explores Thomas Aquinas's treatment of truthfulness and falsehood, discussing different types of lies, their motivations, and how they relate to charity and friendship with God, as well as forms of deception beyond speech, like hypocrisy and irony.This lecture was given on June 22nd, 2023, at Stonyhurst College.For more information on upcoming events, visit us at thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-eventsAbout the Speaker:Prof. Adam Eitel (Yale Divinity School) holds appointments in the Divinity School, the Program in Medieval Studies, and the Humanities Program. His research and teaching bring topics in the history of Christian theology to bear on questions of fundamental moral concern. A specialist in medieval scholasticism, his particular research interests span doctrinal and moral theology, especially in the works of Thomas Aquinas and his contemporaries. His first book, Thomas Aquinas and the Invention of the Preacher, examines the need for gifts of the Holy Spirit in light of the eliminable conditions of human folly; as this volume approaches the final stages of revision, he is also preparing a translation and critical introduction to Aquinas’s Contra impugnantes. His contributions to various journals include published and forthcoming essays in the Journal of Religious Ethics, Nova et Vetera, Studies in Christian Ethics, and The Thomist. Longer term aspirations include projects on the virtue of charity, the nature of sin, grace, eschatology, grief, and infant mortality.Keywords: Charity, Deception, Holiness, Hypocrisy, Irony, Lies, Mortal Sin, St. Thomas More, Summa Theologica, Truthfulness

Rev. Thomas Petri O.P., a distinguished theologian and President of the Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception, dives deep into St. Thomas Aquinas's insights on God and suffering. He explores the concept of God as the essence of being and goodness. Petri clarifies that evil stems from the absence of good rather than being a force of its own. Additionally, he discusses free will and its connection to sin, emphasizing humanity's intrinsic desire for communion with God, while addressing the divine purpose behind suffering.

Professor Michael Krom, a specialist in Aquinas’s philosophical theology, explores the modern 'Benedict Option' as a response to cultural decline. He contrasts this with Saint Benedict’s historical withdrawal, advocating for community-driven justice and the role of custom in governance. Krom emphasizes discernment in vocation and the need for genuine Christian living amidst societal decay. He also critiques contemporary applications of the Benedict Option, urging a balanced approach to action and contemplation in faith.

Fr. Bonaventure Chapman, a Catholic priest and philosopher at the Catholic University of America, dives into the foundations of ethics. He challenges traditional frameworks by emphasizing that moral absolutes stem from human actions, not just divine commands. The discussion touches on complex topics, including the moral implications of acts like murder, exploring how intention shapes our ethical evaluations. Additionally, he contrasts Protestant and Catholic views on morality, incorporating insights from Aristotle and Aquinas to illuminate these tensions.

Fr. Dominic Verner, O.P., a moral theologian and Assistant Professor at Providence College, delves into Aquinas' concept of honor as a reflection of excellence. He emphasizes honor's vital role in personal virtue, community, and authentic friendships. The discussion covers the psychological effects of honor, including its impact on self-perception and behavior. Fr. Dominic also explores the relationship between honor and glory within Christian faith, advocating for the importance of shared honor in nurturing strong communities and fostering authentic expressions of faith.

Fr. Bonaventure Chapman, a Catholic priest and philosopher specializing in early modern ethics, critiques the flaws of modern action theory by examining intentions through the lenses of Wittgenstein and Anscombe. He emphasizes the intricacies of intentional actions, urging listeners to look beyond superficial definitions. Discussions also touch on moral controversies, like the ethics of honoring controversial figures, and explore the importance of understanding one’s motivations to grasp the true moral implications of actions.

Professor Michael Wahl, an Assistant Theology Professor at Providence College, dives into the Catholic Church's view on abortion, merging scientific and philosophical arguments for the pro-life cause. He elaborates on Thomas Aquinas's insights into virtue, emphasizing how habits shape moral character. Wahl highlights the relevance of saints as relatable role models, illustrating their personal journeys and making their virtue attainable for everyday life. His reflections resonate with the importance of moral development in both individual and communal contexts.