88: The Powerlessness of Evil

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