What is "natural philosophy," and why is an Aristotelian understanding of the natural world so vital for Catholic theology and the pursuit of human happiness? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Anna Mitchell welcomes back Fr. Sebastian Walshe, O.Praem., Norbertine priest at St. Michael's Abbey and author of The Heart of the Gospel, to preview his upcoming lecture series for the Institute of Catholic Culture, "Concepts of Nature: Aristotelian Natural Philosophy."

Fr. Walshe breaks down the foundational definitions of philosophy—as the setting in order of ultimate causes accessible to human reason—and nature, defined by Aristotle as an intrinsic principle of change and motion arising spontaneously from within a thing. He explains how humanity's natural desire for happiness moves from basic survival needs toward the pursuit of ultimate truth. Fr. Walshe highlights how understanding human nature as part of the physical world allows us to discover our purpose and recognize a First Cause above nature. Citing St. Thomas Aquinas's maxim that "grace builds upon nature," Fr. Walshe emphasizes that securing truth about the natural world protects us from falling into theological errors regarding Divine Revelation. Stream now to listen!