The Thomistic Mind: Episode 07

Episode 7 — Why Study Logic? Why should we study logic at all? In this episode of The Thomistic Mind, Dr. Jason Reed continues the classical introduction to logic by explaining why logic matters—especially for philosophy, theology, and the life of faith. Building on the previous discussion of order in reason itself, this lecture presents logic as unavoidable, grounded in reality, and indispensable for knowing truth. The episode then turns to common objections to logic, many of them raised sincerely by people of faith. These concerns worry that logic somehow places human reason above God, limits divine omnipotence, or undermines mystery and miracle. Each objection is carefully stated and then answered from an Aristotelian–Thomistic perspective. Key questions addressed include: • Is logic unavoidable in human reasoning? • Is logic grounded in being and reality? • Does logic “work,” and how do we know? • Does using logic put reason above God? • Is God subject to logic—or does logic come from God? • Can God do what is logically impossible? • Are miracles illogical? • Do Christian doctrines involve real contradictions? The lecture clarifies the crucial distinction between logical laws and laws of nature, explains why logical impossibilities are not “things” at all, and shows how logic functions as a gift from God—an instrument for eliminating error and safeguarding truth in theology and philosophy. This episode lays essential groundwork for understanding how logic serves faith rather than undermines it, preparing the way for deeper discussions of mystery, doctrine, and reasoned belief.