The Problem of Evil

Question 1

Inconsistent Triad

Answer 1

Argue how the threes beliefs (evils exists, god is all powerful and god is all loving) cannot exist without contradiction

Question 2

Mill

Answer 2

the extent of evil and suffering in the world does not suggest a good God, but instead suggests that if there is a creator behind the world, it must be a malevolent creator

Question 3

Augustine

Answer 3

evil is a “privatio boni” or absence of good

Question 4

Criticism of Augustine

Answer 4

absence of good doesn’t appear to be a good explanation for serious crimes

doesn’t explain why the angels and humans fall from grace

questions omniscience of god

Question 5

Irenaeus

Answer 5

god allows evil for people to develop into freely chosen relationships with god

Question 6

John Hick

Answer 6

describe world as ‘vale of souls-making’

evil is apart of gods plan

god deliberately keeps himself hidden

Question 7

Criticism of Iraenaeus and Hick

Answer 7

argument god has to allow evil for people to use free will questions his omnipotence

doesn’t explain why young babies and animals suffer