The Thomistic Institute

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.

Professor Farr Curlin discusses the challenges in providing quality care for terminally ill patients, emphasizing the balance between relieving suffering and facilitating a meaningful death. The podcast also explores the ethical dilemmas surrounding palliative care, physician-assisted suicide, and the erosion of trust in the physician-patient relationship.

Prof. Chris Baglow discusses the Catholic Church's stance on evolution and misconceptions, exploring chance, divine providence, and purpose in evolution. The podcast emphasizes the role of order in evolution, the connection between faith and evolution, and God's harmonious balance in the evolutionary process.

Prof. Karin Oberg discusses the science and religion divide, exploring the impact of the scientific method, the discovery of the expanding universe, and historical perspectives on the universe's stability. She also delves into the intersection of science and religion, discussing miracles, the Big Bang Theory, and the creation of solar systems.

Fr. Gregory Pine and Prof. Catherine Pakaluk discuss family dynamics, humility, wisdom, and virtue through the teachings of Edith Stein, exploring gender complementarity, complexities of life, and the importance of open-minded discussions.

Fr. Conor McDonough, OP, discusses St. Thomas Aquinas's journey in Christian theology, the innovations in the Middle Ages, Aquinas's academic life, preaching techniques, and diversity in medieval theology.

Prof. Paul Symington, an expert in philosophy and free will, discusses the historical and contemporary views on free will. The podcast explores the interplay between the soul, brain, and free will, addressing objections like determinism. It also delves into how brain activity and consciousness play a role in achieving self-determination.

Delving into the complexities of Christian political duties, the podcast explores the tensions between loyalty to God and country. It analyzes Romans 13, debates the intersection of patriotism and religious beliefs, and reflects on the biblical origins of nations and covenants. The discussion highlights the balance of obedience to political authorities while prioritizing devotion to God, emphasizing the ultimate allegiance of believers.

The podcast discusses the intrinsic worth of human goods like friendship and justice, explores the relationship between health and moral norms, challenges prioritizing rights over human flourishing, emphasizes the importance of religious freedom, analyzes religious liberty through natural law reasoning in the Catholic tradition, and delves into the complexities of balancing religious freedom with state coercion.

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.