The Thomistic Institute

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.

Explore the significance of conscience, prudence, and natural law in decision-making. Delve into moral norms, freedom, and the philosophical basis of conscience. Understand the complexity of moral decision-making and the nature of actions. Learn about the obligations of conscience, forming one's conscience, and making informed decisions. Dive into the concept of natural law, seeking truth, and navigating moral complexity through virtue and prudence.

Debates on truth in morality, challenges of empirical testing for moral judgments, survival vs. moral goodness, Aristotle's perspective on virtue, and the impact of positivism on defining truth are explored in a thought-provoking discussion on ethics and philosophy.

Prof. Adam Eitel discusses fear, humility, and the gifts of the Holy Spirit in religious texts like Thomas Aquinas. Topics include humility linked to fear, controlling passions, humility guiding hope, recognizing human defects, and Job's encounter with God leading to moral transformation.