

The Thomistic Institute
The Thomistic Institute
The Thomistic Institute exists to promote Catholic truth in our contemporary world by strengthening the intellectual formation of Christians at universities, in the Church, and in the wider public square. The thought of St. Thomas Aquinas, the Universal Doctor of the Church, is our touchstone.
The Thomistic Institute Podcast features the lectures and talks from our conferences, campus chapters events, intellectual retreats, livestream events, and much more.
Founded in 2009, the Thomistic Institute is part of the Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception at the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, DC.
The Thomistic Institute Podcast features the lectures and talks from our conferences, campus chapters events, intellectual retreats, livestream events, and much more.
Founded in 2009, the Thomistic Institute is part of the Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception at the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, DC.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 8, 2020 • 49min
What is Evil? Why Does God Permit It? | Fr. Dominic Legge, OP
Fr. Dominic Legge, OP, delves into the philosophical problem of evil and God's goodness, discussing St. Augustine's views and Christian theology's perspective. He explores the concept of evil as a lack of what should be present, and the role of redemption in allowing evil for a greater good.

Jan 7, 2020 • 43min
Making Sense of Death with Dignity | Prof. Farr Curlin
Prof. Farr Curlin, an expert in end-of-life care and ethics, discusses perspectives on death with dignity, physician-assisted death, and autonomy in end-of-life decisions. The podcast delves into the ethical considerations, disparities in assisted death statistics, and the impact on vulnerable populations. It also explores the role of physicians in end-of-life care and the balance between healthcare spending and preserving health.

Jan 6, 2020 • 43min
Thomism of the Body | Fr. Thomas Petri, OP
Fr. Thomas Petri, OP, discusses the history of Church perspectives on marriage, the impact of original sin on communication, and the transformation of the body's meaning in the afterlife. They explore the connection between St. Thomas Aquinas' theology and John Paul II's Theology of the Body, focusing on innate desire for perfection, unity of body and soul, and rational love for self-mastery.

Jan 3, 2020 • 51min
Love and Leadership: Machiavelli or the Good Shepherd? | Capt. Joseph McInerny
Military captain Capt. Joseph McInerny discusses love and leadership, comparing Jesus and Machiavelli's styles. Topics include integrity in leadership, Jesus's judgment and love for enemies, and the importance of love and service in impactful leadership.

Dec 31, 2019 • 45min
Growing In Faith And Intellect Through The Liberal Arts | Prof. Zena Hitz
Prof. Zena Hitz discusses how liberal arts aid in spiritual growth, showcasing stories of intellectual pursuits in prison and outside academic settings. The podcast explores a philosopher's conversion, the symbolism of the Virgin Mary, and the role of discipline in spiritual growth.

Dec 31, 2019 • 45min
Neuroscience and Free Will | Dr. Daniel De Haan
Neuroscientist Dr. Daniel De Haan discusses the debate on free will and neuroscience, examining critiques of traditional concepts and Benjamin Libet's experiments. The podcast explores the interplay between neuroscience, voluntary actions, and brain decision-making processes.

Dec 29, 2019 • 47min
Sacramental Architecture as Offering and Presence | Prof. Philip Bess
Prof. Philip Bess, an expert in sacramental architecture, discusses the essence of sacred architecture as a response to the divine. Topics include Notre Dame de Paris, iconography, biblical figures, theology of light, connections to Neoplatonist traditions, and the shift in building cultures from pre-modern to postmodern. Bess explores radical architectural designs for church restoration, emphasizing the importance of continuity, tradition, and sacred architecture in conveying worship.

Dec 26, 2019 • 50min
The Anagogical Intentions of the Medieval Cathedral Builders | Dr. Steven Schloeder
Dr. Steven Schloeder discusses the spiritual essence of medieval cathedrals, the anagogy in Catholicism, and the influence of Dionysius Theology. He explores the celestial glory and anagogical intentions of early Gothic builders like Abbot Sugarius.

Dec 23, 2019 • 55min
The Interior Cathedral and the Cathedral Interior | Dr. Margaret Hughes
Dr. Margaret Hughes, an expert in interior design and architecture, discusses the parallel between human interior and church architecture. They explore the significance of understanding human nature, beauty in church spaces, and the purpose of church design in focusing on God. The conversation delves into reason, rationality, the complexities of perceiving God, and the impact of aesthetics on architectural evolution.

Dec 20, 2019 • 57min
The Soul of Freedom: Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Perspectives | Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P.
Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P., an expert in freedom perspectives, discusses traditional vs. modern views on liberty, human nature goods, virtue, and divine providence. Touches on multiple soulmates, free will, and the pursuit of excellence


