The Problem of Evil Plan
The Problem of EvilPlan
Intro “There is a problem about why God allows evil,
and if the theist does not have… a satisfactory answer to it, then his belief in God is less than rational.” (Swinburne)
Nature of evil = natural/moral
What is the problem? Philosophical problem: God’s attributes vs. evil
and suffering Theological problem: Does this mean God does
not exist? Logical impossibility Inconsistent triad
#1 Irenaen Theodicy God did not make a perfect world, evil has a part
to play and will be overcome eventually, allowing perfection in heaven
“God’s image” (Gen. 1:26) to God’s likeness, Gen. is metaphorical
John Hick: “soul making” and goodness of robots = valueless, God must be at epistemic distance, Peter Cole: “The presence of evil helps people to grow and develop.”
Natural evil allows us to develop compassion, free will = moral evil
Strengths Maintains God’s attributes: evil and suffering are
chances for humans to become perfect Suffering will be compensated for as humans will
be perfect in heaven God loves humans, he gave us the chance to
become his likeness
Weaknesses If everyone goes to heaven, there is no
motivation to do good Why is the process of perfection taking so long? Good can develop without suffering, and end
doesn’t justify means
#2 Process theodicy A.N. Whitehead, David Griffin God is not omnipotent and did not create ex
nihilo. He is a co-sufferer, and started the evolutionary
process He can guide humans but not control us He is developing too
Strengths Reality is continuous so there are endless
possibilities God is a co-sufferer so he is accessible Maintains omni-benevolence
Weaknesses Griffin: “God is responsible in the sense of having
urged the creation forward.” Doesn’t explain what God’s nature is, does not
maintain his attributes. Is a limited God worth worshipping? If God is benevolent, he should not have created
the world.