the evidential problem of evil

Question 1

what is it?

Answer 1

our response to the existence of horrific suffering in the world.
it argues that the sheer amount and intensity of evil in the world counts again the existence of an omnipotent, omniscient supremely good god.
furthermore, must of this evil does not lead to a greater good.

Question 2

standard form

Answer 2

p1 there is intense suffering in this world which could have been prevented by an omnipotent omniscient supremely good being without losing some greater good
p2 an omnipotent omniscient supremely good being will prevent pointless intense suffering
conc therefore an omnipotent omniscient supremely good being does not exist.

Question 3

criticism

Answer 3

john hick would reject premise 1 arguing that having consistent laws of nature is a greater good than having god constantly interfere in the world to prevent pain and suffering.