
Philosophy for the People
Philosophy for the People’s mission is an educational program aimed at overcoming the paucity of serious, fair-minded, and accessible philosophical discourse available to a popular audience. Though we are ourselves dedicated to the Catholic intellectual tradition, we are likewise committed to exploring ideas from all rigorous traditions of philosophizing (scholastic, classical, analytic, and phenomenological). We pursue this mission by providing long-form guided readings of great texts, discussions with expert guests, our own open-ended philosophical discussions of issues and thinkers, live question and answer opportunities, in depth lecture courses, and our own articles and book-length writings. Philosophy for the People’s pedagogical materials will be provided either without charge or for minimal cost to assure provision of broad access to first-rate philosophical education.
Latest episodes

Jan 13, 2025 • 51min
The Philosophy of Freud (Part 1)
Pat and Jim begin a new series on Freud. Live QnA at the end! More philosophy content on Pat's Substack: https://journalofabsolutetruth.substack.com/

Jan 6, 2025 • 1h 5min
Our Favorite Philosophy Books of 2024 (Plus Live QnA)
Pat and Jim do a year in review, including discussing some of their favorite books. Also, live QnA at the end. Head to Pat's Substack for more philosophy content: https://journalofabsolutetruth.substack.com/

Dec 10, 2024 • 55min
Divine Hiddenness and Dogmatic Authority w/ Fr. James Dominic Rooney
Fr. James Dominic Rooney returns to the podcast to discuss some of his recent work on divine hiddenness and dogmatic authority (two distinct topics!). For more philosophy content, check out Pat's Substack: https://journalofabsolutetruth.substack.com/

Dec 9, 2024 • 12min
What Exactly Is a Brute Fact?
Let's talk about brute facts, baby! More on Substack: https://journalofabsolutetruth.substack.com/

9 snips
Oct 28, 2024 • 1h 2min
Boethius, the Good, and Philosophy as Therapy w/ Dr. Tom Ward
Dr. Thomas Ward, a scholar of medieval philosophy and author of After Stoicism, joins the conversation to discuss the legacy of Boethius. He reflects on Boethius's life, highlighting how his philosophical insights provided solace during tumultuous times. The dialogue explores the healing power of philosophy, contrasting true happiness with material wealth. Ward dives into Boethius's notions of providence and freedom, and the timeless relevance of goodness and evil. Additionally, he shares insights on future philosophical projects, weaving together faith, ethics, and existence.

Oct 20, 2024 • 1h 21min
Ratzinger's Notion of Person: a Thomistic Response w/ Dr. Gaven Kerr
In this discussion, Dr. Gaven Kerr, an expert in Thomistic philosophy, dives deep into the notion of personhood through the lens of Ratzinger's theology. He distinguishes between divine relations and human identity, highlighting the complexities of the Trinity. The conversation critiques traditional metaphysical frameworks and emphasizes relationality in understanding personhood. Kerr also explores misconceptions around Thomism, the nature of action, and the enduring impact of various philosophical influences, all while advocating for a synthesis of these rich traditions.

Oct 2, 2024 • 1h 3min
Thomistic Metaphysics: an Introduction w/ Dr. Michael Gorman
Dr. Michael Gorman, an author renowned for his work on Thomistic metaphysics, shares fascinating insights into Aquinas's ideas about existence and the essence of things. He discusses the complex interplay between modern science and philosophical principles while diving deep into the concept of substances. Gorman contrasts Thomistic and Franciscan views, emphasizing the importance of a cohesive understanding of identity. The conversation also touches on realism vs. anti-realism in science and the nature of substantial forms, illuminating the significance of these philosophical explorations.

Sep 20, 2024 • 1h 11min
Contingency, Grounding, and God w/ Dr. Kenneth Pearce
Pat is joined by Dr. Kenneth Pearce to discuss some of his recent work related to metaphysical grounding, contingency, and the existence of God. Head to Pat's Substack for more philosophy content: https://journalofabsolutetruth.substack.com/

Sep 19, 2024 • 52min
How God Knows He's Not a Brain In a Vat w/ Dr. Gaven Kerr
Pat and Gaven discuss cool things, like Aquinas's theory of existence and how God knows He's not a brain in a vat. More on Pat's Substack - https://journalofabsolutetruth.substack.com/

Aug 27, 2024 • 37min
Skeptical Theism w/ Dr. Perry Hendricks
Pat is joined by Perry to discuss his work on Skeptical Theism. https://www.perryhendricks.com/
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.