Episode
Platonic Thought in St. Thomas Aquinas with Dr. Donald Prudlo
- Published
- Jan 27, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 5750
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Summary
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Deacon Harrison Garlick and Dr. Donald Prudlo explore the intricate relationship between Plato and St. Thomas Aquinas, examining how Aquinas's thought is influenced by Platonic philosophy while also being rooted in Aristotle. We are reading the PURGATORIO for Lent! Check out our LIBRARY OF GUIDES TO THE GREAT BOOKS . See Dr. Prudlo's books on St. Thomas, administration, and more! They discuss the nuances of Aquinas' understanding of universals, the nature of evil, and the significance of the body in Christian anthropology, highlighting the complexities of Aquinas's intellectual context and the historical development of these philosophical ideas. They discuss how Aquinas synthesized various philosophical traditions, particularly in his understanding of existence and essence, the role of beauty, and the moral implications of his metaphysics. The dialogue also touches on the early church's reception (or rejection) of Aristotle, the influence of Islamic philosophy, and the evolution of Aquinas' thought throughout his life. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the richness of Aquinas' philosophy and its relevance to contemporary discussions on faith and reason. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Great Books Podcast 03:11 Experiencing the Papal Conclave 06:34 Plato and Aquinas: A Complex Relationship 12:43 Aquinas' Intellectual Evolution 17:02 The Importance of Reading the Great Books 24:25 Platonic Thought in Aquinas' Philosophy 34:48 The Quest for Certitude in Philosophy 37:20 Realism and the Nature of Universals 40:56 Mind-Body Dualism and the Significance of the Body 47:36 The Reception of Aristotle in Early Christianity 54:09 The Distinction Between Essence and Existence 01:04:53 The Role of Beauty in Aquinas' Philosophy 01:0…