The New Thinkery

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.

Kaishuo Chen, a PhD student at Boston College, joins the guys this week for a dive into the teachings of Confucius and exploring the intersection of his philosophy with esotericism. Uncover the practical applications of this unique blend, as the group navigates the ancient teachings and its relevance today, shedding light on the practical implications of merging Confucian principles with esoteric knowledge.

In this episode, delve into the profound philosophical insights of Xenophon's Apology as the guys explore the teachings and reflections of Socrates from Xenophon's point of view. Unravel the layers of Socratic thought and its enduring relevance in modern ethical discourse, as you tour through the intellectual landscape of classical Greek philosophy.

This week, Greg and Alex are joined roundtable-style at UATX by Mark Blitz, Fletcher Jones Professor of Political Philosophy at Claremont McKenna University; Devin Stauffer, Professor and Associate Chair at UT Austin; and Christopher T. Lynch, Head of the Political Science and Philosophy Department at Missouri State University. Together, the group discuss Natural Right & History as well as a few other Strauss writings that assist in imparting a better understanding of Strauss' seminal work. 

This week, the guys continue their mini-series breaking down Shakespeare's Hamlet, this time with a focus on Act III. Delve into the intricate web of Hamlet's psyche as the unraveling Prince grapples with questions of sanity. Explore the iconic soliloquy that has echoed through the centuries, underlining the profound depths of Shakespeare's timeless masterpiece.  

This week, the guys are joined by Ronna Burger, Professor of Philosophy, Catherine & Henry J. Gaisman Chair, and Director of Judeo-Christian Studies among other prestigious titles at Tulane University. Burger provides insights on the profound legacy of Moses, delving into the intersection of biblical wisdom and Greek philosophy. Plus: timeless insights that bridge the ancient world to contemporary thought.

This week, the guys return to Leo Strauss' crucially important book, Natural Right and History. The guys discuss the intricate relationship between classical political thought and modernity. Strauss delves into the timeless questions surrounding the nature of political authority, justice, and the tension between individual freedom and societal order. Plus: why Greg doesn't believe David when he tells him a notable individual has died.

The guys are joined by Peter J. Ahrensdorf, the James B. Duke Professor of Political Science and Affiliated Professor of Classics at Davidson College to discuss his book, Homer and the Tradition of Political Philosophy: Encounters with Plato, Machiavelli, and Nietzsche. Ahrensdorf and the guys explore an overlooked but crucial role that Homer played in the thought of Plato, Machiavelli, and Nietzsche concerning relationship between politics, religion, and philosophy. 

In this week's classic episode of The New Thinkery, the guys discuss the Christmas classic: A Christmas Carol. They go through the book's plot, themes, underlying philosophical points, and talk about the cultural impact the book has had since its publication in the nineteenth century.