

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

Nov 29, 2019 • 1h 1min
Does Science Need Faith? | Fr. Anselm Ramelow, O.P.
Fr. Anselm Ramelow, O.P., a Dominican priest, delves into the intersection of science and faith, exploring the parallels between scientific presuppositions and aspects of faith. He discusses the concept of intelligent design as a necessary cause of order in the universe, reflects on the challenges of understanding God through scientific reasoning, and explores the notion of God's omnibenevolence in relation to morality and order in the universe.

Nov 27, 2019 • 46min
Is Free Will An Illusion? | Prof. Paul Symington
Prof. Paul Symington explores the concept of free will, discussing its importance in decision-making and human actions. He debates the relationship between intellect and will, addresses objections to free will, and examines the interplay of free will and divine providence in determining human actions.

Nov 26, 2019 • 48min
On Earth As It Is In Heaven | Prof. Sarah Byers
Professor Sarah Byers, an environmental studies specialist, discusses the relationship between law and freedom according to Augustine and Aquinas. The podcast explores philosophical views on justice, natural law theory, and its implications, including the evolution of natural law throughout history.

Nov 25, 2019 • 1h 6min
One Of The Trinity Was Crucified | Fr. Thomas Joseph White, O.P.
Fr. Thomas Joseph White, O.P., explores how idioms are attributed to Jesus in relation to his humanity and divinity, delves into Pope Leo the Great's interpretations of Christ's nature, discusses the coexistence of divine and human natures in Christ without confusion, reflects on Christ's self-awareness and knowledge, and challenges the traditional Catholic belief on whether Jesus believed he was God through revelation.

Nov 22, 2019 • 58min
Is Belief In God Rational? | Fr. Gregory Pine, OP
Fr. Gregory Pine, OP, discusses the rationality of belief in God by exploring faith, doubt, knowledge, and trust. He emphasizes the role of reason in evaluating testimonies and the significance of faith in human flourishing. The chapter delves into the Thomistic perspective on the existence of God and creation ex nihilo.

Nov 20, 2019 • 1h 7min
Why Leisure Is Necessary For Human Beings | Prof. Zena Hitz
Prof. Zena Hitz discusses the importance of leisure for human fulfillment using Augustine's contemplation, contrasting portrayals in French comedy and German romance films, exploring Mary's virtues and the role of study in leisure, and highlighting the essence of leisure in revealing humanity's true dignity and essence.

Nov 19, 2019 • 1h 2min
St. John Henry Newman on the Complexity of Human Knowledge | Prof. Joshua Hochschild
Prof. Joshua Hochschild dives into St. John Henry Newman's critique of liberalism and knowledge, exploring its impact on human understanding of truth. They discuss liberalism's providential purpose in politics, the complexity of human knowledge and faith, and the impact of liberalism and Vatican II on the church's evolution.

Nov 18, 2019 • 1h 3min
Why Leisure Is Necessary For Human Beings | Zena Hitz
Zena Hitz, an expert on leisure, discusses the essence of genuine leisure for human fulfillment, contrasting distractions. She explores contemplative leisure in films, traditional leisure through reading, and the necessity of embracing leisure for personal growth and societal value.

Nov 15, 2019 • 58min
The Gift and Fruits of the Holy Spirit | Prof. Eleonore Stump
Prof. Eleonore Stump discusses the impact of the Holy Spirit on virtues and moral transformation. Topics include courage as a gift, virtues like love and patience, faithfulness, modesty, and the importance of maintaining a moral compass. The podcast also explores letting go of self-centered desires, embracing God's grace, and various forms of baptism.

Nov 14, 2019 • 1h 5min
Apostles of Empire: The Jesuits and New France | Prof. Bronwen McShea
Prof. Bronwen McShea discusses the Jesuit mission in New France, highlighting their multifaceted roles including trade, military partnerships, and shaping Native American communities. The chapter also explores the dynamic relationships between Jesuits and indigenous peoples, emphasizing the significant contributions of Native American women and French settlers. The podcast concludes with a recount of a visit to a castle in France and a discussion on Jesuits' perspectives on faith, friendship, and imperialism in New France.


