The problem of Evil - St Augustine and J.L Mackie Flashcards
What is the concept of the “Inconsistent triad” ?
- God is omniscient/ omnipotent and omnibenevolent. However evil exists so either his omniscient, omnipotent or omnibenevolent qualities must be logically incorrect and therefore wrong
Who created the concept of the Inconsistent Triad?
J. L Mackie
Quotes supporting the inconsistent triad (Epicurus)
“Is God willing to prevent evil, but not able? Then he is not omnipotent. Is he able but not willing? Then he is malevolent. Is he both able and willing? Then whence evil? “
Who else supports the inconsistent triad?
David Hume
What is the evidential problem of evil?
An argument that widespread, seemingly gratuitous suffering and evil provide strong evidence against the existence of a traditional, all-powerful, all- knowing and wholly good God.
What does the evidential problem of evil assert?
The observable presence of unnecessary suffering and evil is strong empirical evidence that such a God likely does not exist.
How does the evidential problem of evil challenge God?
Challenges the existence of a traditional God by pointing to the existence of unnecessary suffering and evil.
Solutions to the problem : Denying God’s existence
He cannot control evil so cannot be blamed for its continued existence
Which theological view prefers the solution of denying God’s omnipotence?
Process theology
What does Process Theology say about evil?
Evil is a process within matter that is beyond God’s direct control
What are the problems with the idea of a non-omnipotent God for most believers?
- most believers think a God who is not omnipotent would not be worth of worship.
- a non-omnipotent God would not be ‘God’
Why would a non- omnipotent God not be considered ‘God’?
God’s omnipotence is a matter of faith and without it, he would not be considered ‘God’
Why is denying God’s omnibenevolence problematic for most Christians?
Christians believe God’s goodness and love provides comfort during evil and form the basis of hope for future life in heaven
What quote supports the belief in God’s goodness and future hope?
“God will wipe away every tear”
“neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore”
- Revelation 21:4
How does God’s omnibenevolence give hope to christians?
It promises the end of suffering and death, offering hope for eternal life in heaven.
How does St. Augustine describe evil?
Evil is a privation of good
What is “privation of good” ?
Evil is the absence of good rather than something that exists in its own right
What is a positive aspect of denying the existence of evil?
Just as darkness is the absence of light, evil could be seen as the absence of good, removing the logical ‘problem’ to solve
What is the problem with denying the reality of evil?
Most people have experienced the power of evil and view it as tangible as goodness, making this solution seem acceptable
Solutions that suggest why God allows evil?
- The free will Defense
- John Hick’s eschatological solution
Who is St Augustine (Key Scholar) ?
- Early Christian theologian and philosopher
Define the term “Theodicy”
- Means ‘righteous God’ or ‘defense of God’
- An argument that suggests God is right to allow the existence of evil and suffering because they are necessary
What does Augustine’s theodicy discuss?
The idea that both God and evil exist as evil is necessary in this world
Why does Augustine believe God allows evil and suffering?
Augustine believes they are important for human nature and development.
