The New Thinkery

Join us for a deep dive into the world of Plato as we explore Plato's Hipparchus. The guys unpack this lesser-known dialogue, delving into its themes of justice, leadership, and the ideal state. Discover how Plato's insights from over two millennia ago still resonate in today's society, offering time-tested wisdom and thought-provoking ideas.

Join in on a lively discussion with Martin Yaffe and Nathan Dinneen about Francis Bacon's political philosophy and foreign policy. Dive into Bacon's unique blend of realism and humanitarianism, his ambition for universal philosophy, and the complexities of his works. Explore Bacon's views on knowledge, science, and his vision for scientific progress with ethical implications.

This week, Alex and Greg join a live panel hosted by Michigan State University to explore the perspective of Leo Strauss on two towering figures of philosophy and political thought: Friedrich Nietzsche and Alexis de Tocqueville. The guys are joined by Raul Rodriguez, a dean's research associate at MSU, to delve into the nuanced interpretations and critiques that Strauss offers, shedding light on these thinkers' profound impact on modern philosophy and political theory. Plus: the panelists take questions from the audience.

This week, the guys close out Shakespeare's Hamlet by focusing on Act V. The play reaches its dramatic climax as the threads of betrayal, revenge, and madness culminate in a blood-drenched conclusion. The guys dissect the pivotal act, exploring Hamlet's complex character, the consequences of his actions, and the tragic fate that befalls him and those around him. From the haunting graveyard to a gripping duel, the guys analyze the moments that lead to the play's finale.

Continuing on Part I from last week, Greg and Alex again replace David with renowned Rousseau scholar Dr. Christopher Kelly, professor of political science at Boston College. The group analyze Rousseau, Judge of Jean-Jacques, this time touching on the enigma of conspiracy and how Rousseau's work fits in with Christian ideas and values. Plus: Dr. Kelly expands on his backstory.

This week, Greg and Alex replace David with renowned Rousseau scholar Dr. Christopher Kelly, professor of political science at Boston College. The group focus on how to situate Rousseau, Judge of Jean-Jacques with Rousseau's other writings, how to properly understand Rousseau, and the two enigmas. Stay tuned for part II next week!

This week, Alex and Greg replace David with not one, but two guests! Tom Cleveland rejoins the show with a new title as the Executive Director of the American Political Tradition Project at the Jack Miller Center, and James Guess, with a PhD from the Universtiy of Dallas, appears for the first time. The group take a look at Robert Bresson's A Man Escaped. Despite being a commercial failure at the time, the movie was enjoyed by critics and has plenty to teach us about the human condition even today.

This week Douglas Kries, a distinguished scholar from Gonzaga University, joins the guys as they delve into the profound insights of Augustine's monumental work, The City of God. Explore timeless philosophical questions and the enduring relevance of Augustine's ideas in understanding the nature of society, politics, and the human condition. Gain a deeper understanding of this text and its implications for Christianity in this engaging episode.

Join the guys as they delve into the heart of Shakespeare's masterpiece, Hamlet. Act IV revolves around a pivotal moment in the play where the intricate web of deceit and ambition begins to unravel. From the haunting soliloquies to the dramatic confrontations, how this act shapes the course of the tragedy, leading to the climactic finale, is analyzed. Plus: the complexities of Hamlet's psyche, the treachery of Claudius, and the ultimate fate of the troubled prince are unpacked. Stay tuned for Act V!

Join us as we delve into the profound insights of political philosopher Leo Strauss' Natural Right and History featuring returning special guest Devin Stauffer, Professor and Associate Chair at UT Austin. In this episode, the group unravel the complexities of Chapter 5, Part 1, exploring Thomas Hobbes' enduring impact on political theory.