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).

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Sample Answer

The problem of evil is a philosophical question that asks how the existence of evil can be reconciled with an omnipotent, omnibenevolent, and omniscient God. The problem was first articulated by the Greek philosopher Epicurus in the 3rd century BC, but it has been debated by philosophers and theologians ever since.

There are many different ways to formulate the problem of evil, but one common formulation is as follows:

  • If God is all-powerful (omnipotent), he can prevent any evil from happening.
  • If God is all-good (omnibenevolent), he wants to prevent all evil from happening.
  • If God knows everything (omniscient), he knows about all the evil that is happening in the world.
  • But evil does happen in the world.
  • Therefore, God is not omnipotent, omnibenevolent, or omniscient.

Full Answer Section

There are a number of different possible answers to the problem of evil. Some people argue that the problem is simply a logical impossibility. They argue that it is impossible for a God to be omnipotent, omnibenevolent, and omniscient, and that the existence of evil proves that God does not exist.

Other people argue that the problem of evil is a mystery that we cannot fully understand. They argue that God is beyond our comprehension, and that we cannot know why he allows evil to happen. Still others argue that the problem of evil is a test of our faith. They argue that God allows evil to happen in order to test our faith in him.

Why do we suffer?

There is no one answer to the question of why we suffer. Some people believe that suffering is a punishment from God, while others believe that it is a test of our faith. Still others believe that suffering is simply a part of life, and that it is something that we must all endure.

How might we ‘answer’ the problem of evil?

There are a number of different ways to answer the problem of evil. Some possible answers include:

  • Free will: God allows evil to happen because he has given us free will. Free will is the ability to choose between good and evil. If God were to prevent all evil from happening, he would also be preventing us from exercising our free will.
  • Soul development: Suffering can help us to grow and develop as people. It can teach us compassion, empathy, and resilience.
  • Greater good: Sometimes, suffering is necessary for the greater good. For example, a doctor may have to cause a patient pain in order to save their life.

It is important to note that there is no one right answer to the problem of evil. The problem is complex, and there is no easy solution. However, it is a question that is worth pondering, as it can help us to better understand our place in the world and our relationship with God.

Creative thoughts on the problem of evil

Here are some creative thoughts on the problem of evil:

  • Perhaps God is not all-powerful, but rather a limited being who is struggling against evil.
  • Perhaps evil is necessary for the existence of good. Without evil, we would not be able to appreciate the goodness in the world.
  • Perhaps suffering is a way for God to connect with us. When we suffer, we are more likely to reach out to God for help.

These are just a few possible answers to the problem of evil. It is important to note that these are just theories, and that there is no definitive answer to the question of why God allows evil to happen.

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