The Problem of Evil: Evaluation of Theodicies Flashcards
(12 cards)
Do Theodicies Preserve the Traditional God? - What is the main strength of classical theodicies?
They uphold traditional Christian doctrine, maintaining God as omnipotent, omniscient, and omnibenevolent.
Do Theodicies Preserve the Traditional God? - What is the major theological weakness in many theodicies?
They often compromise God’s nature morally or logically to justify evil, stretching divine attributes to breaking point.
Are Theodicies Morally Adequate? - What is the main moral justification theodicies use for evil?
Most argue evil serves a greater good, such as soul-making, free will, or eschatological justice.
Are Theodicies Morally Adequate? - What is a key criticism of this moral justification?
It can appear emotionally detached or morally cold, failing to adequately address gratuitous or extreme suffering.
Can Theodicies Explain Natural Evil? - Why is natural evil a challenge for many theodicies?
Natural evil, like earthquakes or diseases, is not caused by human free will and is difficult to justify morally.
Can Theodicies Explain Natural Evil? - How do some theodicies attempt to explain natural evil
Some blame the Fall or use soul-making, but these explanations rely on controversial doctrines and fail to account for seemingly pointless suffering.
“Do Theodicies Rely Too Much on Speculation? - What kind of claims do many theodicies depend on?”
“Unverifiable faith-based claims such as the Fall, the afterlife, or divine mystery.”
Do Theodicies Rely Too Much on Speculation? - Why does reliance on speculation weaken theodicies?
Because it undermines their philosophical rigor and explanatory power, leading to circular reasoning.
Also, cuts out peopel who are skeptical on the nature of an afterlife or the creation story
Is Re-defining God a Better Solution? - How does Process Theology redefine God?
God is not omnipotent but persuasive, working with creation and unable to prevent all evil.
Is Re-defining God a Better Solution? - What is a criticism of this redefinition of God?
It challenges traditional worship and may lead believers to reject the God of classical theism.
What’s the Purpose of Theodicy – and Does It Succeed? - What is the main goal of theodicies?
To defend belief in God despite the existence of evil and suffering.
Why might theodicies ultimately fail in their goal?
They often compromise moral adequacy, theological coherence, or redefine God so much that faith is undermined.
