The New Thinkery

In this opening of a two-part discussion, Professor Tim Burns guides the guys through a thoughtful discussion on Leo Strauss, democracy, technology, and the role of liberal education. Join us for a down-to-earth conversation that explores the intersection of these topics and their relevance in today's world, and stay tuned for the second episode next week, featuring more discussion on Heidegger, Churchill, and more!

Happy Thanksgiving from The New Thinkery! As the guys convene as the holiday season kicks into high gear, the topic of gratitude is predictably front of mind. Featuring brief readings from a variety of sources, some not often remembered, the guys dig into the idea of gratitude from the Ancient Greeks, to Hobbes, to Lincoln. 

Join the guys as they dissect Franz Kafka's In the Penal Colony. Dive into the intricacies of the story, exploring its symbolism, existential themes, and the eerie apparatus, as the guys unravel the mysteries of justice, guilt, and societal structures in Kafka's masterpiece.

This week, Alex gathers with Jeff Black of St. John's College, David Levy of St. John's College, and Michael McShane of the Dallas Institute to discuss some of the nuances of his newest book, Musings on Plato's Symposium. This thoughtful panel discussion was put together by the excellent Political Animal Press.

A belated Happy Halloween from the guys at The New Thinkery! Join the guys for a spine-tingling analysis of the 1931 classic, M, as they explore its chilling atmosphere, interesting techniques, and enduring impact on the thriller genre. Delve into the mind of a child murderer, as we dissect this cinematic masterpiece and its timeless ability to send shivers down your spine. 

Join B.J. Dobski, professor of political science, as the guest on the podcast. They discuss the surprising connections between Shakespeare's Coriolanus and the film Stripes. Delve into themes of revolution, class divisions, and quest for honor. Explore the influence of writers on movies, improvisation, and the depth of popular culture. Touch on nudity in movies and Bill Murray's influence.

Join the guys this week as they delve into the ancient wisdom of Hesiod's "Works and Days." Discover timeless insights on labor, virtue, and the human condition that continue to resonate today in the first episode of a multi-part mini-series breaking down the moralizing advice Hesiod has for his borther, among other important pieces of the work.

Join the guys, with returning guest and Damian Jungerman, an expert on Hannah Arendt, as they unpack Arendt's profound essay, "Ideology and Terror," which sheds light on how totalitarian ideologies can give rise to mass violence and offers new perspectives on the consequences of rigid belief systems. Plus: an opportunity to meet the cast and learn more about Leo Strauss at an upcoming UATX event!

The guys are joined by Professor Nasser Behnegar, Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies at Boston College. The group discuss how Strauss delves into the differences between classical political philosophy and modern political thought, with an emphasis on classical philosophers seeking to discover timeless, objective truths about justice and human nature, while modern thinkers often embrace relativism and historical contingency in their approach to politics. Also highlighted is the importance of understanding these foundational differences in order to critically evaluate modern political ideas and their implications for society.

This week, Alex and Greg take over the show to speak with Shilo Brooks, Executive Director of the James Madison Program at Princeton University, about Nietzsche's essay "On the Use and Disadvantage of History for Life". The group walk through Nietzsche's argument that excessive immersion in historical knowledge can lead to a passive and unhealthy way of life, causing individuals to lose sight of the present and their own creative potential, as well as his suggestion that history should serve a life-affirming purpose.