The Problem of Evil
The problem of evil is often given in the form of an inconsistent triad. For example, J. L. Mackie gave the following three propositions:
- God is omnipotent
- God is omnibenevolent
- Evil exists
Mackie argued that these propositions were inconsistent, and thus, that at least one of these propositions must be false. Either:
- God is omnipotent and omnibenevolent, and evil does not exist.
- God is omnipotent, but not omnibenevolent; thus, evil exists by God's will.
- God is omnibenevolent, but not omnipotent; thus, evil exists, but it is not within God's power to stop it (at least not instantaneously).
Many responses have been made to the problem of evil, including the proposition that evil exists as a consequence of a greater good, such as free will; that evil is an illusion; and that evil is necessary for spiritual growth.
Read more about this topic: Inconsistent Triad
Famous quotes containing the words problem and/or evil:
“Theology, I am persuaded, derives its initial impulse from a religious wavering; for there is quite as much, or more, that is mysterious and calculated to awaken scientific curiosity in the intercourse with God, and it [is] a problem quite analogous to that of theology.”
—Charles Sanders Peirce (1839–1914)
“Let your word be Yes, Yes’ or No, No’; anything more than this comes from the evil one.”
—Bible: New Testament, Matthew 5:37.