The problem of evil: a defence of the eipcurean position
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2012
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Abstract
Epicurus first clearly set out the logical problem of evil, challenging the idea that God can be omnipotent, omniscient, and omnibenevolent, given suffering. Various philosophers attempt to solve the problem by denying evil, presenting a theodicy, or accepting a diminished deity. In this thesis, I analyze the efficacy of theodical attempts. I argue that there are no successful attempts that do not dilute at least one of the attributes. Among others, I discuss the views of Malebranche, whose theodicy compromises God's omnipotence; those of Bayle, which undermine God's benevolence; and various free-will 'solutions' which dilute or destroy omniscience. Finally, I consider another way of solving the problem, which is to accept a 'diminished deity', and discuss whether such an approach is successful. I conclude that there are no indefeasible theodicies, which ultimately suggests that the problem of evil remains a strong indication that there is no God.
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Bibliography: p. 121-127
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Citation
Wetmore, N. L. (2012). The problem of evil: a defence of the eipcurean position (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/4695