HELLO, I’M BRENTON
I’m Brenton G. Smith, Ph.D., a historian of philosophy. I specialize in Ancient Philosophy and wrote my dissertation on Plato. My work explores integrative questions between philosophy and ethical-religious transformation. I also host the podcast, The Heart and the Head. This platform is where I share my latest work, podcasts, and reflections.
HELLO, I’M BRENTON
I’m Brenton G. Smith, Ph.D. a historian of philosophy. I specialize in Ancient Philosophy and wrote my dissertation on Plato. My work explores integrative questions between philosophy and ethical-religious transformation. I also host the podcast, The Heart and the Head. This platform is where I share my latest work, podcasts, and reflections.
THE HEART AND THE HEAD
Listen to My Podcast
Delve into discussions that challenge conventional thinking and explore deep philosophical questions. Listen now for engaging content on philosophy, ethics, and history.
THE HEART AND THE HEAD
TEACHING
I consider my teaching to be the most important aspect of my career. To me, the primary value of liberal arts education lies in its opening minds, preparing students so that they are equipped to seek truth. My approach to teaching is always grounded in a deep recognition of the practical importance of philosophy to my students’ lives, which I find primarily in its existential import.
RESEARCH
What is the most basic reason we believe what we believe, and act the way we do? My research focuses on one strand of historical Platonists’ (and particularly, Plato’s) answer to this question. Their answer is that our desire for whatever object we identify with happiness determines both our beliefs and the scope of our actions.
PODCAST
“The Heart and the Head” is a podcast about changing our lives through taking up a philosophical life of seeking after truth. This is considered by examining the lives and teachings of great philosophers and thinkers throughout history.
