In this episode, Wyatt Graham and Matthew Hoskin delve into Boethius's 'Consolation of Philosophy,' focusing on the nature of goodness and evil, the consequences of pursuing virtue versus vice, and the transformative power of choices. They explore the concepts of providence and fate, the strength of goodness compared to the weakness of evil, and how adversity serves as a test of virtue. The discussion culminates in reflections on happiness and the moral order, emphasizing that true happiness is found in the pursuit of goodness.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Boethius's Philosophy

03:10 The Nature of Goodness and Evil

06:08 Transformation Through Virtue and Vice

09:09 The Pursuit of Happiness and the Role of Will

12:03 The Consequences of Sin and Weakness

15:00 The Illusion of Power in Wickedness

18:02 The Order of Desire and Divine Purpose

23:29 Understanding Providence and Fate

27:10 The Moral Order and Chaos

30:51 Adversity as a Path to Virtue

35:30 The Nature of True Happiness

In this conversation, Dr. Wyatt Graham and Dr. Matthew Hoskin delve into Boethius's philosophical arguments in 'The Consolation of Philosophy,' particularly focusing on the nature of evil and its existence. They explore the idea that evil is not a positive force but rather a lack of good, leading to the conclusion that evil men, despite their actions, do not truly exist in a meaningful sense. The discussion also touches on the weakness of those who pursue evil, the relationship between goodness and happiness, and the illusion of power held by evil individuals. Literary references, including characters from Tolkien's works, are used to illustrate these philosophical points, culminating in a rich exploration of the themes of power, goodness, and the nature of existence.

Since Ian has followed his passions by travelling to the Antarctic to befriend the penguins, special cohost Dr. Matthew Hoskin joins Dr. Wyatt Graham to discuss book 3 of The Consolation of Philosophy by Boethius.

In this conversation, Graham and Hoskin explore the philosophical insights of Boethius, particularly focusing on the nature of true happiness and its relationship with God. They discuss how worldly pursuits such as wealth and power often lead to misery rather than fulfillment, emphasizing that true happiness is found in the divine. The dialogue delves into the concept of participation in the divine nature and how virtues contribute to a deeper understanding of happiness. Ultimately, they conclude that God is the unchanging source of goodness and happiness, and that true contentment comes from aligning oneself with this divine reality.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context of Boethius

02:44 The Nature of True Happiness

05:37 The Illusion of Earthly Goods

08:12 The Pursuit of Virtue and God

10:46 God as the Source of Happiness

13:00 The Connection Between Philosophy and Scripture

20:09 Exploring Happiness and God

24:34 Pleasure and Participation in God

29:18 Divine Participation and Theosis

34:28 The Nature of God and the Problem of Evil