The problem of evil and suffering

Question 1

What is natural evil?

Answer 1

Evil as a result of natural occurrences e.g. earthquake

Question 2

What is moral evil?

Answer 2

Evil as a result of free choices made by human beings

Question 3

What is physical evil?

Answer 3

Evil caused through sickness/ physical harm

Question 4

What is metaphysical evil?

Answer 4

Evil as prevention of things reaching full potential and perfection (Leibniz)

Question 5

What is the history of evil?

Answer 5

• Adam and Eve (original sin) - making a bad choice (Genesis 3)
• Absence of good - all things were good (Genesis 1) so evil must be the absence of good - St Augustine
• Satan - **adversary **of God, who tempts faithful followers of God and brings evil in the world
• Damaged mind- evil is a creation of psychological forces that shape our character