Chasing Leviathan

PJ and Dr. Steven Nadler discuss Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz's "best possible world" theodicy and its historical context, including the heated exchanges between Leibniz, Antoine Arnauld, and Nicolas de Malebranche.

Show Notes

In this episode of the Chasing Leviathan podcast, PJ and Dr. Steven Nadler discuss the heated debates between Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, Antoine Arnauld, and Nicolas de Malebranche over how to best answer the theological problem of evil and suffering. Dr. Nadler not only provides historical insight into this particular conversation, but also reflects on the impact that theological speculation has on our own contemporary debates. 

For a deep dive into Dr. Steven Nadler's work, check out his book: https://www.amazon.com/Best-All-Possible-Worlds-Philosophers/dp/0374229988

Check out our blog on www.candidgoatproductions.com 

Who thinks that they can subdue Leviathan? Strength resides in its neck; dismay goes before it. When it rises up, the mighty are terrified. Nothing on earth is its equal. It is without fear. It looks down on all who are haughty; it is king over all who are proud. 

These words inspired PJ Wehry to create Chasing Leviathan. Chasing Leviathan was born out of two ideals: that truth is worth pursuing but will never be subjugated, and the discipline of listening is one of the most important habits anyone can develop. 

Every episode is a dialogue, a journey into the depths of a meaningful question explored through the lens of personal experience or professional expertise.

What is Chasing Leviathan?

Who thinks that they can subdue Leviathan? Strength resides in its neck; dismay goes before it. It is without fear. It looks down on all who are haughty; it is king over all who are proud. These words inspired PJ Wehry to create Chasing Leviathan. Chasing Leviathan was born out of two ideals: that truth is worth pursuing but will never be subjugated, and the discipline of listening is one of the most important habits anyone can develop. Every episode is a dialogue, a journey into the depths of a meaningful question explored through the lens of personal experience or professional expertise.