scholarly opinions' overview

The problem of evil is approached as both a logical and evidential problem:

  1. Logical Problem: This aspect involves applying logic to question the truth of claims about God. It raises the question of whether God, if possessing qualities such as omnipotence and omnibenevolence, would allow the existence of evil. The logical problem is often presented as an a priori argument based on reasoning alone, seeking to understand the compatibility of God's attributes with the presence of evil.

  2. Evidential Problem: The evidential problem focuses on the lack of sufficient evidence for the power and love of God considering the existence of evil in the world. This approach is more empirical and relies on a posteriori arguments based on observable evidence. It questions whether the state of the world aligns with what one would expect if an all-powerful and all-loving God exists.

In summary, the logical problem delves into the internal consistency of the concept of God given the existence of evil, while the evidential problem questions the external evidence supporting the existence of a benevolent and powerful deity in the face of observable evil in the world.

the logical problem:

  • Epicurus, the ancient Greek philosopher (342-271 BCE), formulated a logical argument regarding the existence of evil and its implications for the nature of God. His argument can be summarised as follows:

    1. Existence of Evil as a Challenge to God's Attributes:

      • Epicurus posited that the presence of evil in the world challenges the traditional attributes ascribed to God, particularly omnipotence (all-powerful) and omnibenevolence (all-good).

    2. Dilemma for God's Power and Goodness:

      • He presented a dilemma:

        • If God is unable to prevent evil, then he is not truly omnipotent.

        • If God is able to prevent evil but chooses not to, then he is not wholly benevolent.

    3. Linking Omnipotence and Benevolence:

      • Epicurus connected the notions of omnipotence and benevolence, suggesting that if God possesses both qualities, then the existence of evil becomes contradictory.

    4. Conclusion Based on Human Experience:

      • Drawing on the observation of the existence of evil in human experience, Epicurus concluded that God, as traditionally conceived, must not exist.

    In essence, Epicurus' argument challenges the classical theistic conception of an all-powerful and all-good God by highlighting the apparent inconsistency between the existence of evil and the attributes commonly attributed to God in the Western religious traditions.

  • david hume: “epicurus’ old questions are yet unanswered. is he willing to prevent evil, but not able? then is he impotent. is he able, but not willing? then is he malevolent. is both able and willing? whence then is evil?”

  • JL Mackie: inconsistent triad, check key scholars table

theodicy: justification of God

  1. St. Augustine:

    • Theodicy: St. Augustine proposed what is known as the "Augustinian theodicy" or the "free will defence."

    • Key Points:

      • Augustine emphasised human free will as the cause of moral evil. He argued that God created humans with free will, and the misuse of this freedom leads to evil.

      • The existence of evil, according to Augustine, is a consequence of human choices rather than a direct act of God.

  2. St. Irenaeus:

    • Theodicy: St. Irenaeus developed what is often referred to as the "soul-making theodicy."

    • Key Points:

      • Irenaeus suggested that the existence of evil serves a purpose in the development and maturation of human souls.

      • He viewed the world as a place where souls are refined and perfected through experiences, including the encounter with evil.

      • The process of overcoming challenges and moral struggles contributes to the growth of individuals' moral character.

  3. John Hick:

    • Theodicy: John Hick expanded on the soul-making theodicy in a contemporary context.

    • Key Points:

      • Hick argued that God allows evil in the world to provide individuals with opportunities for moral and spiritual development.

      • The process of facing and overcoming evil contributes to the growth and transformation of human character.

      • Hick's theodicy emphasises the importance of human responses to suffering and evil in the overall purpose of God's plan.

epistemic distance n free will:

  • Humans, if created perfect with awareness of God, would lack genuine free will.

  • Believes being at an "epistemic distance" from God is necessary for true freedom.

  • Emphasises God's interest in humans choosing to become who He desires.

  • God remains distant to prevent humans from being overwhelmed by His reality.

  • Asserts that the purpose of suffering and evil will be revealed in the afterlife.