History of Philosophy Without Any Gaps

Discover why critics hail Don Quixote as the first modern novel. Delve into the transformative madness of the protagonist and its impact on literary structure. Explore the blurred lines between perception and reality, and how chivalry and class dynamics shape the narrative. Unpack Cervantes' take on economic theory through perceived versus intrinsic value, revealing how belief plays a crucial role in the worth of fiction. This journey highlights the profound emotional resonance that drives the story's characters and their societal implications.

Tom Pink, a philosophy professor at King's College London and an expert on Francisco Suárez, dives into the intricate ethical theories of the 16th-century Spanish Jesuit. They explore Suárez's nuanced views on moral action, highlighting how reason and freedom shape our decisions. Pink discusses the complex relationship between divine authority and moral obligation, alongside the balance of civil and religious duties. The conversation also contrasts Suárez's political philosophy with that of Hobbes, shedding light on their differing perspectives on authority and freedom.

Explore the intriguing thoughts of Iberian scholastics like Suárez on the foundations of political power and its legitimate exercise. Discover how concepts of ownership and social contracts evolved from family structures to broader political communities. Delve into the religious dynamics of the 16th century, examining the debates on governance between Protestant and Catholic ideologies. Learn how these philosophical discussions paved the way for future human rights discourse, linking personal relationships to larger societal frameworks.

Vitoria, a pioneer of natural law, Molina, a significant contributor to its discourse, and Suárez, an influential philosopher, delve into the evolution of natural law's relevance today. They explore the tension between personal morality and legal obligations through modern dilemmas. The conversation spans the impact of economic policies on morality, the complexities of pricing in transactions, and the interplay between human and natural law. These Scholastic thinkers tackle ethics surrounding international law and historical injustices, revealing the enduring significance of their ideas.

Francisco Suárez, a key philosopher bridging scholasticism and early modern thought, dives into the intricacies of metaphysics. He explores the profound themes of existence and non-existence, delving into 'beings of reason'. The discussion navigates the relationship between abstract concepts and causation, shedding light on how earlier philosophical traditions shape these ideas. Suárez's insights reveal how metaphysics evolves, reflecting a critical transition in philosophical thought.

Luis de Molina, a key figure in 17th-century philosophy, is spotlighted for his controversial doctrine of 'middle knowledge,' which addresses the tension between human free will and divine foreknowledge. The discussion reveals how Molina’s ideas challenged traditional views and sparked fierce debates among Catholic thinkers. The conflict between Molina and his Dominican counterpart, Báñez, highlights the theological rift over free will and grace, echoing through centuries of discussion on moral responsibility and agency.

Exploring the intersection of art history and philosophy in the Northern and Italian Renaissance era through the works of Dürer and Michelangelo. Analyzing artistic responses to Luther's ideas, humanism, symbolism, and individualism in Renaissance artworks. Interpreting Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel paintings in connection to philosophical and religious themes like Platonism and divine transcendence.

Anna Tropia, expert on Jesuit philosophy, discusses how Jesuit thinkers broke new ground with their erudition and eclecticism. Topics include the unique scholastic philosophy of Jesuits, exploration of lesser-known Jesuit philosophers, and debates on intellect's direct perception of singulars vs universals.

Explore the School of Salamanca founded by Francisco Vitoria and the intellectual legacy it left behind. Learn about the Iberian Scholastic thinkers such as Francisco Suarez and their unique perspectives on universals, individuation, and knowledge. Dive into the influence of Scholastic ideas spreading beyond Europe to places like Asia with figures like Matteo Ricci.

Andrés Messmer, Spanish Protestantism researcher, discusses the challenges faced by Spanish Protestants, their scholarly background, integration of philosophy into their beliefs, and the influence of figures like Juan de Valdez. The podcast explores the unique historical context of Spanish Protestantism amidst Catholic dominance and the Inquisition.