214 episodes

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.

The New Thinkery The New Thinkery

    • Society & Culture
    • 4.9 • 212 Ratings

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

    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!

    • 49 min
    Ralph Waldo Emerson's The American Scholar

    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. 

    • 50 min
    CDC Reeve on Aristotle's Dialectic

    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!

    • 1 hr 22 min
    Paul Carrese on George Washington

    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. 

    • 1 hr 13 min
    On Fitness

    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.

    • 1 hr 2 min
    Ariel Helfer on Plato's Letters

    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. 

    • 1 hr 20 min

Customer Reviews

4.9 out of 5
212 Ratings

212 Ratings

Ghost of LS ,

A True Silenus

The rough exterior of this podcast hides the beautiful golden wisdom within.

LendonL ,

Number one podcast

Unlike other podcasts, this one FULLY examines life, not partially. I can’t wait to be like Greg when I grow up!

Kingtolstoy ,

Who has courage in the 21st century?

A “good” podcast. Their minds make me want to go to St. John’s College.

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