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
10 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 56min
Brothers Karamazov: Manicheanism, Christian Existentialism and other Paradoxes I Prof. Thomas Pfau
In this engaging discussion, Thomas Pfau, Alice Mary Baldwin Professor of English at Duke University, dives into Dostoevsky’s The Brothers Karamazov. He contrasts the worldviews of Ivan and Alyosha, exploring themes of freedom, suffering, and divine love. Pfau sheds light on the provocative “Rebellion” and “Grand Inquisitor” chapters, linking their insights to contemporary issues of faith and authority. His analysis reveals the existential struggles within the narrative, offering listeners a thought-provoking lens on morality and belief.
Aug 11, 2025 • 50min
Happiness Understood Psychologically and Theologically I Prof. Christopher Kaczor
In this insightful discussion, Christopher Kaczor, a Professor at Dominican House of Studies and author of numerous books on ethics and happiness, dives deep into the intertwining of psychological and theological views on happiness. He explores Martin Seligman's positive psychology and its alignment with Christian teachings, emphasizing gratitude and divine connection. Kaczor also tackles the nature of temptation, likening it to a transient bear, and shares effective strategies for strengthening willpower and navigating life's challenges.
5 snips
Aug 8, 2025 • 51min
Aquinas and Luther on Justification I Dr. Nathaniel Peters
Dr. Nathaniel Peters, Director of the Morningside Institute, illuminates the theological clash between Martin Luther and Thomas Aquinas on justification. He thoroughly investigates how Aquinas views grace as essential for merit, contrasting it with Luther's focus on faith alone. The discussion reveals how Aquinas balances justice and mercy while Luther emphasizes a personal transformation. Peters dives into complex concepts of righteousness, showcasing the profound implications for understanding faith and salvation.
Aug 7, 2025 • 43min
Thomas Aquinas on Charity I Fr. Cajetan Cuddy, O.P.
Fr. Cajetan Cuddy, a Dominican priest and scholar, dives into the depths of charity, the highest theological virtue according to St. Thomas Aquinas. He connects Aquinas's thoughts on charity to contemporary issues like just war theory and moral order. Exploring the Summa Theologiae, Fr. Cuddy highlights how charity underpins Christian ethics and influences societal harmony. His insights into the relationship between divine friendship and moral virtue illustrate Aquinas's lasting impact on philosophy and theology.
8 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 53min
Martin Luther and Thomas Aquinas Against the Pelagians I Dr. Erik Dempsey
Dr. Erik Dempsey, an Associate Professor at the University of Texas at Austin, delves into the theological standoff between Martin Luther and Thomas Aquinas regarding Pelagianism. He highlights their mutual rejection of justification through human effort, showcasing how both thinkers emphasize the essential role of divine grace. The discussion also unpacks their nuanced differences on free will and merit, prompting a fresh perspective on their teachings. Dempsey's insights encourage a richer ecumenical dialogue on these historical theological debates.
7 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 46min
What Makes Laws Just? An Introduction to the Natural Law Tradition I Fr. Dominic Legge, O.P.
Fr. Dominic Legge is the Director of the Thomistic Institute and an Associate Professor in Systematic Theology, with a rich background in law and theology. He delves into the intricate relationship between justice and law, challenging legal positivism by highlighting the importance of natural law as envisioned by Thomas Aquinas. He explains justice as a relational virtue that affirms human equality, and explores how laws can promote the common good. Engagingly, he illustrates how moral responsibilities underpin effective legislation, making profound connections to contemporary society.
Aug 1, 2025 • 38min
Can We Be Happy Without God? I Prof. Matthew Shea
Matthew Shea, an Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Franciscan University of Steubenville, dives deep into the philosophical question of happiness in relation to God. He discusses insights from Plato and St. Augustine, emphasizing that true fulfillment lies in a relationship with the divine. Shea contrasts theistic views against atheistic perspectives, arguing that perfect happiness is unattainable without God. He also explores humanity's longing for connection and virtue, suggesting that while imperfect happiness is possible, ultimate contentment can only be found through faith.
13 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 51min
How to be a Little Less Awful: The Cultivation of Virtue I Prof. Timothy J. Pawl
Join Prof. Timothy J. Pawl, a renowned philosopher from the University of St. Thomas, as he explores the intricate nature of virtue. He harmonizes Christian moral wisdom with contemporary psychology, detailing eight practical steps to cultivate virtue in daily life. Topics include the roles of self-control and habit formation, drawing from Augustine's insights, and creatively bridging ancient teachings with modern practices. Listeners will discover how nurturing virtue can transform personal growth and enhance moral wisdom, even in challenging times.
Jul 30, 2025 • 41min
From Apathy to Agape: Christian Encounters with Stoic Philosophy I Prof. Thomas Ward
In this conversation, Thomas Ward, an Associate Professor of Philosophy at Baylor University with expertise in medieval thought, delves into the revival of Stoicism and its appeal during the COVID pandemic, particularly among tech professionals. He contrasts Stoic views on tranquility with the Christian emphasis on love and relationships as pathways to happiness. Ward also explores Boethius’s journey from despair to hope, highlighting his influential work, 'The Consolation of Philosophy,' and advocates for the integration of Stoic and Christian philosophies.
Jul 29, 2025 • 44min
The Cardinal Virtues and Living Life Well I Prof. Raymond Hain
Raymond Hain, an Associate Professor of Philosophy at Providence College, dives deep into the four cardinal virtues—prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance. He explores their philosophical roots and relevance to living a flourishing life, incorporating insights from Plato, Cicero, and St. Thomas Aquinas. Hain draws connections between these virtues and themes from literature, including Tolkein's enchanting tale 'Smith of Wooten Major,' revealing how tales can embody moral lessons and the essence of character development.
