204 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 • 209 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.

    Marc Landy on America and Modernity

    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.
     
    Learn more about this episode's sponor, Ralston College, and their immersive Humanities MA!

    • 1 hr 20 min
    Dustin Peone on Comedy and Philosophy

    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.
     
    Learn more about this episode's sponor, Ralston College, and their immersive Humanities MA!

    • 1 hr 10 min
    Christopher Lynch on Machiavelli on War

    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. 

    • 1 hr 4 min
    W. B. Allen on Montesquieu's Spirit of the Laws

    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 critical edition 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!

    • 1 hr 2 min
    Plato's Hipparchus

    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.

    • 59 min
    Laurence Berns on Francis Bacon with Martin Yaffe and Nathan Dinneen

    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 The Political Philosophy of Francis Bacon: With Special Attention to the Principles of Foreign Policy. 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. 

    • 1 hr 10 min

Customer Reviews

4.9 out of 5
209 Ratings

209 Ratings

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.

unkown ,

A masterclass

My favorite podcast, and by far the best political philosophy commentary available on the internet today. Cannot recommend highly enough.

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