The New Thinkery

The New Thinkery is a podcast devoted to political philosophy and its history, along with its many guises in literature, film, and human experience generally. Named after Socrates’ infamous “Thinkery” in Aristophanes’ Clouds, The New Thinkery strikes a balance between the seriousness of academia and the playfulness of casual conversation among friends.

Plato's Lovers 07/24/2024

Plato's Lovers In this week's episode, the guys unpack Plato's Lovers, a dialogue centered on the question of what philosophy is. Join the guys as they explore Socrates' interactions with a jock and a nerd in competition to have their love reciprocated by their beloveds. Plus: the unveiling of The New Thinkery's merch store! /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/32228597

Ralph Waldo Emerson's The American Scholar 07/17/2024

Ralph Waldo Emerson's The American Scholar Join the guys as they delve into Ralph Waldo Emerson's brief essay, "The American Scholar," picking apart the diagnostic value of Emerson's view of the American mind. Through insightful discussions and thorough analysis, they explore the relevance and implications of Emerson's ideas in the modern world, offering a critique of Emerson's transcendentalism and challenging its practicality and impact on contemporary thought. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/32129372

CDC Reeve on Aristotle's Dialectic 07/10/2024

CDC Reeve on Aristotle's Dialectic This week, Alex and Greg replace David with renowned philosopher CDC Reeve. The group delve into Aristotle's Dialectic, exploring the depths of ancient Greek philosophy and its relevance today, specifically how Aristotle's method of dialogue and debate seeks to uncover truths through logical reasoning and critical questioning. Plus: don't miss the lightning round! /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/32042307

Paul Carrese on George Washington 07/03/2024

Paul Carrese on George Washington Happy Fourth of July from the New Thinkery! This week, Alex and Greg are joined by Paul Carrese, professor at Arizona State University and senior fellow at the Jack Miller Center, to discuss George Washington in observance of Independence Day. The group discuss George Washington's ascendancy to power, his attempts to stop factionalism, and his impact as a global figure. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/31951117

On Fitness 06/26/2024

On Fitness This week, the guys mostly put away the books to discuss the importance of fitness, both for physical longevity and mental sharpness. Led by Greg, the guys share their thoughts and experiences with exercise, including their personal exercise regimens and how they balance exercise in their daily lives. Plus: David's biggest pet peeve about exercise advertising. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/31850887

Ariel Helfer on Plato's Letters 06/19/2024

Ariel Helfer on Plato's Letters In this episode, the guys are joined by Professor Ariel Helfer of Wayne State University to discuss his new book on Plato's Letters. Delve into an engaging conversation about the philosophical insights and historical context of Plato's epistolary works, as well as how we ought to contextualize the work itself. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/31757933

Leo Strauss' What Is Political Philosophy?, Part III 06/12/2024

Leo Strauss' What Is Political Philosophy?, Part III The guys take this week to close out their mini-series on Leo Strauss' What is Political Philosophy? Listen in as they unpack Strauss' analysis of modernity, his critique of historicism, and his defense of classical political philosophy. Thankfully, there are less calls to "whip it" this time. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/31664332

Leo Strauss' What is Political Philosophy?, Part II 06/05/2024

Leo Strauss' What is Political Philosophy?, Part II Join the guys for an enlightening continuation of last week's discussion on Leo Strauss' What is Political Philosophy? This week, they delve into part two of the book, focusing on the classical solution to political philosophy. Their exploration reveals timeless insights about the nature of political thought and its enduring relevance, as well as reminding you to "whip it." /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/31570052

Leo Strauss' What is Political Philosophy?, Part I 05/29/2024

Leo Strauss' What is Political Philosophy?, Part I In this episode, the guys delve into the profound insights of Leo Strauss' seminal work, What is Political Philosophy? while cracking their hallmark lewd jokes. Join them as they explore Strauss' examination of the nature and purpose of political philosophy, setting the stage for a deep dive into his enduring influence on contemporary thought. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/31475652

The New Thinkery at 200 05/22/2024

The New Thinkery at 200 The New Thinkery is celebrating its 200th episode this week. To celebrate, the guys convene to do a retrospective of sorts. They take the opportunity to thank listeners, guests, and others, answer listener-submitted questions, give you a peek behind the curtain, and compared to a usual week are a little more... unhinged. Tune in for a fun one! /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/31376807

Marc Landy on America and Modernity 05/15/2024

Marc Landy on America and Modernity Join the guys as they welcome Marc Landy, professor at Boston College, who provides profound insights from his latest book, America and Modernity. Unpacking the complexities of American politics against the backdrop of modernity, Landy's analysis offers a compelling narrative that sheds light on the evolving nature of the American experience. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/31255017

Dustin Peone on Comedy and Philosophy 05/08/2024

Dustin Peone on Comedy and Philosophy This week, the guys are joined by Dustin Peone, instructor of liberal studies at Mercer University and a fellow of the Institute for Vico Studies in Atlanta. The group use Peone's new book, Making Philosophy Laugh: Humor, Irony, and Folly in Philosophical Thought as the baseline to dive into discussion about the profound connections between humor and wisdom. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/31133158

Christopher Lynch on Machiavelli on War 05/01/2024

Christopher Lynch on Machiavelli on War Join the guys this week for an engaging discussion on the art of war through the eyes of Niccolò Machiavelli in Christopher Lynch's latest book, Machiavelli on War. Christopher Lynch is Professor of Political Science at Missouri State University and head of the Department of Political Science. Lynch's work offers a fresh look at Machiavelli's timeless insights, showing how they resonate on the world stage, with a special emphasis on war and strategy. The group explore Machiavelli's cunning and political wisdom, and tease out how his ideas still influence our understanding of conflict and power. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/31011963

W. B. Allen on Montesquieu's Spirit of the Laws 04/24/2024

W. B. Allen on Montesquieu's Spirit of the Laws Join the guys this week for a deep dive into Montesquieu's Spirit of the Laws with the insightful W. B. Allen, Professor Emeritus of Political Philosophy at Michigan State University, who has recently released a new of Montisquieu's best known work. Allen places the timeless relevance of Montesquieu's political philosophy and its impact on modern governance on full display during the discussion. Plus: the lightning round makes a comeback! /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/30896398

Plato's Hipparchus 04/17/2024

Plato's Hipparchus Join us for a deep dive into the world of Plato as we explore Plato's Hipparchus. The guys unpack this lesser-known dialogue, delving into its themes of justice, leadership, and the ideal state. Discover how Plato's insights from over two millennia ago still resonate in today's society, offering time-tested wisdom and thought-provoking ideas. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/30810998

Laurence Berns on Francis Bacon with Martin Yaffe and Nathan Dinneen 04/10/2024

Laurence Berns on Francis Bacon with Martin Yaffe and Nathan Dinneen Join Alex and Greg for an enlightening discussion on Francis Bacon with esteemed guests Martin Yaffe and Nathan Dinneen, editors of . Delve into Bacon's philosophical contributions and their impact on modern thought. Explore his views on knowledge, science, and the human experience, offering fresh insights into this influential figure. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/30721018

Raúl Rodríguez on Strauss' View of Tocqueville and Nietzsche 04/03/2024

Raúl Rodríguez on Strauss' View of Tocqueville and Nietzsche This week, Alex and Greg join a live panel hosted by Michigan State University to explore the perspective of Leo Strauss on two towering figures of philosophy and political thought: Friedrich Nietzsche and Alexis de Tocqueville. The guys are joined by Raul Rodriguez, a dean's research associate at MSU, to delve into the nuanced interpretations and critiques that Strauss offers, shedding light on these thinkers' profound impact on modern philosophy and political theory. Plus: the panelists take questions from the audience. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/30614468

Shakespeare's Hamlet, Act V 03/27/2024

Shakespeare's Hamlet, Act V This week, the guys close out Shakespeare's Hamlet by focusing on Act V. The play reaches its dramatic climax as the threads of betrayal, revenge, and madness culminate in a blood-drenched conclusion. The guys dissect the pivotal act, exploring Hamlet's complex character, the consequences of his actions, and the tragic fate that befalls him and those around him. From the haunting graveyard to a gripping duel, the guys analyze the moments that lead to the play's finale. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/30519258

Christopher Kelly on Rousseau's Rousseau, Judge of Jean-Jacques, Part II 03/20/2024

Christopher Kelly on Rousseau's Rousseau, Judge of Jean-Jacques, Part II Continuing on Part I from last week, Greg and Alex again replace David with renowned Rousseau scholar Dr. Christopher Kelly, professor of political science at Boston College. The group analyze Rousseau, Judge of Jean-Jacques, this time touching on the enigma of conspiracy and how Rousseau's work fits in with Christian ideas and values. Plus: Dr. Kelly expands on his backstory. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/30413038

Christopher Kelly on Rousseau's Rousseau, Judge of Jean-Jacques, Part I 03/13/2024

Christopher Kelly on Rousseau's Rousseau, Judge of Jean-Jacques, Part I This week, Greg and Alex replace David with renowned Rousseau scholar Dr. Christopher Kelly, professor of political science at Boston College. The group focus on how to situate Rousseau, Judge of Jean-Jacques with Rousseau's other writings, how to properly understand Rousseau, and the two enigmas. Stay tuned for part II next week! /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/30345503

Robert Bresson's A Man Escaped ft. Tom Cleveland & James Guess 03/06/2024

Robert Bresson's A Man Escaped ft. Tom Cleveland & James Guess This week, Alex and Greg replace David with not one, but two guests! Tom Cleveland rejoins the show with a new title as the Executive Director of the American Political Tradition Project at the Jack Miller Center, and James Guess, with a PhD from the Universtiy of Dallas, appears for the first time. The group take a look at Robert Bresson's A Man Escaped. Despite being a commercial failure at the time, the movie was enjoyed by critics and has plenty to teach us about the human condition even today. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/30210833

Douglas Kries on Augustine City of God 02/28/2024

Douglas Kries on Augustine City of God This week Douglas Kries, a distinguished scholar from Gonzaga University, joins the guys as they delve into the profound insights of Augustine's monumental work, The City of God. Explore timeless philosophical questions and the enduring relevance of Augustine's ideas in understanding the nature of society, politics, and the human condition. Gain a deeper understanding of this text and its implications for Christianity in this engaging episode. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/30092003

Shakespeare's Hamlet, Act IV 02/21/2024

Shakespeare's Hamlet, Act IV Join the guys as they delve into the heart of Shakespeare's masterpiece, Hamlet. Act IV revolves around a pivotal moment in the play where the intricate web of deceit and ambition begins to unravel. From the haunting soliloquies to the dramatic confrontations, how this act shapes the course of the tragedy, leading to the climactic finale, is analyzed. Plus: the complexities of Hamlet's psyche, the treachery of Claudius, and the ultimate fate of the troubled prince are unpacked. Stay tuned for Act V! /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/30046903

Devin Stauffer on Leo Strauss' Natural Right & History, Chapter 5, Part 1 on Hobbes 02/14/2024

Devin Stauffer on Leo Strauss' Natural Right & History, Chapter 5, Part 1 on Hobbes Join us as we delve into the profound insights of political philosopher Leo Strauss' Natural Right and History featuring returning special guest Devin Stauffer, Professor and Associate Chair at UT Austin. In this episode, the group unravel the complexities of Chapter 5, Part 1, exploring Thomas Hobbes' enduring impact on political theory. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/29896243

Kaishuo Chen on Confucius and Esotericism 02/07/2024

Kaishuo Chen on Confucius and Esotericism Kaishuo Chen, a PhD student at Boston College, joins the guys this week for a dive into the teachings of Confucius and exploring the intersection of his philosophy with esotericism. Uncover the practical applications of this unique blend, as the group navigates the ancient teachings and its relevance today, shedding light on the practical implications of merging Confucian principles with esoteric knowledge. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/29795088

Xenophon's Apology 01/31/2024

Xenophon's Apology In this episode, delve into the profound philosophical insights of Xenophon's Apology as the guys explore the teachings and reflections of Socrates from Xenophon's point of view. Unravel the layers of Socratic thought and its enduring relevance in modern ethical discourse, as you tour through the intellectual landscape of classical Greek philosophy. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/29684158

Roundtable Discussion of Leo Strauss' Natural Right and History 01/24/2024

Roundtable Discussion of Leo Strauss' Natural Right and History This week, Greg and Alex are joined roundtable-style at UATX by Mark Blitz, Fletcher Jones Professor of Political Philosophy at Claremont McKenna University; Devin Stauffer, Professor and Associate Chair at UT Austin; and Christopher T. Lynch, Head of the Political Science and Philosophy Department at Missouri State University. Together, the group discuss Natural Right & History as well as a few other Strauss writings that assist in imparting a better understanding of Strauss' seminal work. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/29584033

Shakespeare's Hamlet, Act III 01/17/2024

Shakespeare's Hamlet, Act III This week, the guys continue their mini-series breaking down Shakespeare's Hamlet, this time with a focus on Act III. Delve into the intricate web of Hamlet's psyche as the unraveling Prince grapples with questions of sanity. Explore the iconic soliloquy that has echoed through the centuries, underlining the profound depths of Shakespeare's timeless masterpiece. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/29484618

Ronna Burger on Moses as Lawgiver and Founder 01/10/2024

Ronna Burger on Moses as Lawgiver and Founder This week, the guys are joined by Ronna Burger, Professor of Philosophy, Catherine & Henry J. Gaisman Chair, and Director of Judeo-Christian Studies among other prestigious titles at Tulane University. Burger provides insights on the profound legacy of Moses, delving into the intersection of biblical wisdom and Greek philosophy. Plus: timeless insights that bridge the ancient world to contemporary thought. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/29383838

Leo Strauss' Natural Right and History, Chapter 3 01/03/2024

Leo Strauss' Natural Right and History, Chapter 3 This week, the guys return to Leo Strauss' crucially important book, Natural Right and History. The guys discuss the intricate relationship between classical political thought and modernity. Strauss delves into the timeless questions surrounding the nature of political authority, justice, and the tension between individual freedom and societal order. Plus: why Greg doesn't believe David when he tells him a notable individual has died. /episode/index/show/thenewthinkery/id/29283238

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