The Problem of Evil in Classical Theism

Flashcards testing concepts related to the problem of evil, the epicurean paradox, JL Mackie's inconsistent triad, and attributes of God in classical theism.

Which group of believers faces the problem of evil specifically?

Classical theism, meaning believers who claim to believe in one God with certain characteristics as seen in Christianity, Judaism, or Islam.

How do non-believers (atheists) account for the existence of evil?

They believe evil exists as a result of random chance with no underlying purpose behind it.

How do polytheists explain the presence of evil?

They attribute evil to disagreements between their many gods or to characteristics of a god that does not benefit mankind.

Which ancient Greek philosopher is credited with first stating the logical problem of evil in a coherent form?

Epicurus (also referred to as Epicurious).

What is the epicurean paradox trilemma?

It presents three facts that religious believers may wish to hold as true at the same time, but which logically do not appear to be simultaneously possible.

What three elements make up the inconsistent triad restated by Australian philosopher JL Mackie?

1. God is omnipotent (all-powerful).
2. God is omni-benevolent (all-loving).
3. Evil is a reality.

Why cannot God's knowledge or presence be used to excuse Him from responsibility for suffering?

God is believed to be all-present (omnipresent) and all-knowing (omniscient), meaning He knows exactly what humans experience and even experienced it firsthand on the cross in the form of Christ.

Why can theists not blame evil on another metaphysical being such as the devil?

Because classical theism holds that there is only one God; if the devil were as powerful as God, the devil would also be a deity and there would be two gods.

How does human suffering conflict with the concept of God as a just lawgiver?

Suffering is not dished out fairly or according to behavior; innocent or good people suffer, and some experience far more suffering than others.

Why does human suffering challenge the idea of God as a loving father?

While a loving father might dish out justice and punishment to teach, a true father would not kill or torture his children to teach them.

What issue arises from the Genesis description of God creating a world where all He made was good?

Either God is responsible for creating evil at the outset, or He views the evil He created as being something good.