The Problem Of Evil

Question 1

Critically compare the logical and evidential aspects of the problem of evil as challenges to belief

Answer 1

1. Logical problem of evil
2. Extent of mora evil
3. Extent of natural evil

Question 2

‘Augustine’s theodicy justifies evils in the world.’ Discuss.

Answer 2

1. Provatio Boni
2. Fall of man
3. Natural evil

Question 3

‘Hick’s theodicy justifies evils in the world.’ Discuss.

Answer 3

1. Moral evil
2. Natural evil
3. Afterlife

Question 4

‘Natural evil has no purpose.’ Discuss.

Answer 4

1. Natural evil - punishment
2. Natural evil - aids spiritual growth
3. Universal salvation

Question 5

Critically compare Augustine and Hick’s theodicies in their attempts to defend God against the problem of evil.

Answer 5

1. Hick success at moral evil
2. Hick and Augustine fail at natural evil
3. Both fail in response to afterlife

Question 6

‘The evidence of suffering in the world demonstrates that God does not exist.’ Discuss.

Answer 6

1. Moral evil
2. Natural evil
3. Afterlife