The Problem of Evil: A Critique of Atheism

Introduction

Atheism, as a philosophical position, rejects the existence of God or any higher power. However, this rejection often relies on emotive appeals to the problem of evil, which poses a challenge to traditional theistic views. This paper will argue that atheism, despite its attempts to provide an alternative explanation, ultimately fails to offer a coherent and logical account of reality.

The Problem of Evil: A Challenge to Theism

The problem of evil, as formulated by Epicurus, states:

“Is God willing to prevent evil, but not able? Then is he not all-powerful. Is he able, but not willing? Then is he not all-good. Is he both able and willing? Then whence comes evil? Is he neither able nor willing? Then why call him God?”

This challenge has been reiterated by prominent atheist thinkers, such as Richard Dawkins:

“The universe we observe has precisely the properties we should expect if there is, at bottom, no design, no purpose, no evil and no good, nothing but blind, pitiless indifference.”

However, this criticism of theism assumes that God’s existence is incompatible with the presence of evil. This assumption will be challenged below.

The Greater Good Defense

One response to the problem of evil is the greater good defense, which argues that God allows suffering for a higher purpose or greater good. This defense has been criticized by atheists, who argue that it:

  • Fails to explain the amount and intensity of evil: If God’s goal is to achieve a greater good, why is there so much unnecessary suffering?
  • Ignores the moral implications of allowing evil: Is it morally justifiable for an all-powerful being to allow innocent people to suffer?

However, these criticisms can be addressed by considering:

The Nature of Evil

Evil is not an independent entity but rather a lack or privation of good. This understanding, rooted in Aristotelian and Thomistic philosophy, suggests that evil is not something God created, but rather a consequence of human freedom and the fallen nature of humanity.

The Value of Free Will

The existence of free will, which allows humans to make choices, is essential for moral agency and personal growth. If God were to intervene in every instance of evil, human freedom would be compromised, and moral responsibility would be lost.

The Greater Good: Moral Development and Redemption

The greater good defense proposes that suffering can lead to moral development, compassion, and redemption. This idea is supported by empirical evidence from psychology and sociology, which demonstrates the positive impact of adversity on personal growth and community building.

As Christian philosopher Alvin Plantinga notes:

“Perhaps God had to create a world containing evil in order to create a world containing a certain kind of good… perhaps the goods in question require the presence of evil in order to exist.”

Atheism’s Inadequate Response

While atheism rejects the greater good defense, it fails to provide a coherent alternative explanation for the existence of evil. Atheistic accounts often rely on:

  • Blind chance or natural selection: However, these mechanisms do not explain why humanity values morality, compassion, and goodness if they are merely byproducts of evolution.
  • Human responsibility: But this perspective neglects the fact that humans are not solely responsible for evil, as natural disasters and diseases also contribute to suffering.

Atheism’s inability to provide a comprehensive explanation for evil is exemplified in Christopher Hitchens’ words:

“The universe is not interested in our existence or welfare. It’s just an uncaring, unfeeling, unconscious entity.”

This perspective raises questions about the origin of moral values and the purpose of human existence, which atheism struggles to answer.

Conclusion

The problem of evil, while a challenge to traditional theism, does not provide a conclusive argument against God’s existence. The greater good defense offers a plausible explanation for the presence of evil, acknowledging the value of free will, moral development, and redemption.

Atheism, on the other hand, fails to provide a coherent account of reality, neglecting to explain the origin of moral values, human responsibility, and the purpose of existence. Ultimately, atheism’s inability to address these fundamental questions renders it an inherently flawed worldview.

References

  • Dawkins, R. (2006). The God Delusion. Bantam Press.
  • Epicurus. (circa 300 BCE). Letter to Menoeceus.
  • Hitchens, C. (2007). God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything. Twelve Books.
  • Plantinga, A. (1974). God, Freedom, and Evil. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans.

Citations