Introduction

Disputatio, an ancient practice of conversation with the goal of distinguishing and clarifying thought, was employed by Dominican scholars in the Middle Ages. What can 21st century U.S. citizens learn from this practice that might transform our civil discourse today? F.L.O.W.cast talks with Adrian Dominican and theologian Sister Patricia Walter to explore the possibilities. 

 

About our guests

Sister Patricia Walter is an Adrian Dominican Sister, former prioress general of her congregation, and for forty years, a professor of theology, teaching at Aquinas Institute of Theology, briefly at the Dominican theologate in Rome, and at Siena Heights College, which was a sponsored ministry of her congregation.  

 

Our host

Sister Beth Murphy, OP, is director of communication for the Dominican Sisters of Springfield. 

 

Takeaways

• Disputatio is an ancient practice of seeking truth used in Medieval European universities. 
• St. Thomas Aquinas is supposed to have said “Rarely affirm, seldom deny, always distinguish.” 
• Before you can search for truth you must be interested in finding it. 
• Slow conversation requires curiosity and a care for relationship. 
• Look for common ground. 

 

Resources

Let's Talk about Truth. Dr. Ann Garrido 

Reclaiming Truth 

Make this a social media artwork folks can download: 

“Truth will be revealed to those who place their faith in God’s Spirit of love, alive and active in all people.” David Caron, O. P.