The 'problem of evil'.

For this discussion board please share your thoughts on the 'problem of evil'. In our textbook Louise Antony's work on "No Good Reason - Exploring the Problem of Evil" should give us a starting point to tackle this these.

What is the problem of evil?
Why do we suffer?
How might we 'answer' the problem of evil? (be creative in your thinking here - but please keep in mind that this is a sensitive topic and should be approached with kindness and open minded thinking).

Full Answer Section

I think that the problem of evil is a difficult one, and there is no easy answer. However, I believe that it is important to keep thinking about it, and to try to find answers that are both intellectually satisfying and emotionally honest.

Here are some possible answers to the problem of evil:

  • Evil is a necessary part of the world. This is the argument that evil is necessary for the existence of good. For example, we might argue that the existence of suffering is necessary for us to appreciate the value of happiness.
  • Evil is the result of free will. This is the argument that evil is caused by the choices that we make. God could prevent evil by taking away our free will, but this would also prevent us from making good choices.
  • Evil is a mystery. This is the argument that we cannot understand why evil exists. God may have his reasons, but they are beyond our comprehension.

I think that all of these answers have some merit. However, I also think that it is important to remember that the problem of evil is a very personal one. Each of us has to find our own way to deal with it.

I believe that it is important to have compassion for those who are suffering. We should try to help them in whatever way we can. We should also try to understand the causes of evil, so that we can work to prevent it.

Ultimately, I think that the problem of evil is a challenge to our faith. It asks us to trust in God, even when we do not understand why he allows evil to exist. I believe that this is a challenge that we can meet, if we have faith and hope.

Sample Answer

The problem of evil is the argument that the existence of evil and suffering is incompatible with the existence of an all-powerful, all-knowing, and all-good God. The argument can be stated as follows:

  1. If God is all-powerful, then he can prevent evil.
  2. If God is all-knowing, then he knows about evil.
  3. If God is all-good, then he wants to prevent evil.
  4. But evil exists.
  5. Therefore, God cannot be all-powerful, all-knowing, and all-good.

There are many different ways to answer the problem of evil. Some people argue that evil is a necessary part of the world, and that it serves some greater good that we cannot understand. Others argue that evil is the result of free will, and that God cannot prevent it without compromising our freedom. Still others argue that evil is a mystery, and that we cannot understand why it exists.