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
Mar 19, 2024 • 1h 9min
Is Smerdyakov a Human Being? | Prof. Stephen Meredith
Prof. Stephen Meredith discusses the intricate character Smerdyakov in Dostoevsky's novel, exploring themes of evil, morality, and rebellion. The podcast delves into faith, love, original sin, guilt, responsibility, and human nature through various character perspectives. It also analyzes Smiryakov's mysterious parentage, upbringing, ties to Fyodor Pavlovich, and portrayal as a complex figure akin to the Holy Fool. The impact of Smirnyakov's interactions with Ivan on their mental states is also examined.
Mar 18, 2024 • 46min
Reconciling the Image of God with the Scientific Image of Human Persons | Dr. Daniel De Haan
Dr. Daniel De Haan discusses reconciling theological concepts and scientific understanding of human beings. Topics cover diverse views on human nature, challenges from scientific perspectives, levels of inquiry in philosophy and science, neuroscience experiments challenging traditional beliefs, and the harmony between faith and reason.
Mar 15, 2024 • 41min
Is Lying Always Wrong? | Fr. Gregory Pine O.P.
Fr. Gregory Pine O.P. discusses the ethics of lying, emphasizing the importance of genuine conversations. The podcast explores biblical teachings on honesty and delves into the distinctions between types of lies. It challenges the view of morality tied only to religious actions and advocates for responses rooted in moral creativity. The guest also explores moral dilemmas in holding onto beliefs during adversity.
Mar 14, 2024 • 53min
Justice: The Point of Courage and Temperance | Prof. John Cuddeback
Prof. John Cuddeback discusses courage and temperance, exploring moral perfection in relationships, the role of law in shaping virtues, and the significance of practical wisdom and prudence in making moral decisions and nurturing relationships.
Mar 14, 2024 • 51min
Unlocking the Power of Virtue w/ Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P. and Prof. Timothy Pawl
Fr. Gregory Pine and Prof. Timothy Pawl discuss the correlation between ancient Christian moral wisdom and contemporary psychology. They explore virtues, communal values, and the importance of recognizing our values in daily life. The conversation also delves into the concept of fortitude, the notions of common good in pagan and Christian settings, and reclaiming virtues in modern society.
Mar 13, 2024 • 39min
Prudence The Forgotten Queen | Prof. John Cuddeback
Prof. John Cuddeback, an expert on Prudence and the Forgotten Queen, discusses the interconnectedness of order, justice, and practical reasoning. The podcast explores the relationship between prudence and justice within the framework of the four cardinal virtues, emphasizing habituation and rectification of the will. It also delves into St. Thomas's views on justice and owing love, highlighting fulfilling owed love to parents and God as perpetual debts of fraternal love.
Mar 12, 2024 • 52min
The Cardinal Virtues | Prof. Patrick Callahan
Philosophy and ethics expert Prof. Patrick Callahan explores the four cardinal virtues - temperance, prudence, justice, and fortitude - and their practical applications in daily life. The podcast delves into St. Thomas Aquinas' views on virtues, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling obligations to society, God, and individuals for leading a just life.
Mar 11, 2024 • 40min
Saint Thomas And The Acquired Virtues | Prof. Candace Vogler
Prof. Candace Vogler discusses Aquinas' synthesis of Aristotle and Augustine's views on virtue ethics, emphasizing continuous moral growth and self-improvement. She explores acquired and infused virtues, highlighting the importance of practicing virtues like courage and justice for the common good. The podcast also delves into the impact of acquired virtues versus deep faith perspective on individuals working with at-risk children.
Mar 8, 2024 • 50min
Is Certainty Possible in Science? | Dr. Brian Carl
Dr. Brian Carl, a scientist specializing in uncertainty in scientific research, discusses the exploration of certainty in science through the perspectives of St. Thomas and Aristotle. The podcast delves into various philosophical perspectives on scientific knowledge, contrasting classical Aristotelian views with modern perspectives on certainty in scientific inquiry. It also explores the historical development of scientific theories and methodologies, highlighting the contributions of prominent figures like Descartes, Bacon, and Galileo.
Mar 6, 2024 • 30min
Are Quality of Life Judgments Ethical? | Prof. Gina Noia
Prof. Gina Noia, an ethics professor, debates the ethical nature of quality of life judgments in healthcare decisions based on Catholic teachings. The discussion revolves around the intrinsic value of individuals, the evolving perception of quality of life for disabled individuals, and the Catholic views on ordinary and extraordinary means of medical treatment.
