The Problem of Evil and Human Free Will: A Critique of Atheism

Atheism, as a worldview, attempts to explain reality without invoking a higher power or divine being. However, this perspective often struggles to provide a coherent account of morality, human free will, and the existence of evil. In this paper, we will examine the logical flaws in atheistic thought, engaging with prominent thinkers such as Dawkins, Hitchens, and Russell.

The Problem of Evil

One of the most significant challenges to atheism is the problem of evil. If God does not exist, why do we observe so much suffering, injustice, and moral depravity in the world? Atheists often argue that the existence of evil disproves the existence of an all-powerful, all-knowing, and benevolent God.

However, this argument relies on a flawed assumption: that God’s intentions are identical to human moral standards. As philosopher Alvin Plantinga notes, “The atheologian must claim that it is possible for him to discern what an omnipotent being would do in a given situation, even though he lacks the relevant knowledge and power” (Plantinga 1974).

Human Free Will and Moral Accountability

One possible explanation for the existence of evil is human free will. If humans possess genuine freedom to make choices, then it is possible that some individuals may choose to act in ways that are not in line with divine intentions.

Atheists often argue that a benevolent God would prevent such choices from occurring. However, this perspective neglects the importance of moral accountability. As philosopher William Lane Craig argues, “If God were to intervene every time someone was about to make a wrong choice, we would never be able to make genuinely free decisions” (Craig 2013).

The Value of Moral Freedom

Moral freedom is essential for human flourishing and the development of moral character. As philosopher John Hick notes, “A world in which there is no possibility of wrongdoing is also a world in which there is no possibility of genuine goodness” (Hick 1966).

In a world without free will, humans would be reduced to mere automatons, lacking the capacity for moral growth and development. The value of moral freedom outweighs the potential risks associated with its exercise.

Counterarguments and Rebuttals

The Argument from Evil

Atheists argue that the existence of evil proves God’s nonexistence. However, this argument relies on an assumption about God’s intentions, which may not align with human moral standards. Furthermore, the existence of evil does not necessarily imply the nonexistence of God; it may simply reflect humanity’s misuse of free will.

The Argument from Lack of Evidence

Atheists argue that there is no empirical evidence for God’s existence. However, this argument neglects the possibility of non-empirical evidence, such as philosophical and logical arguments. Moreover, the lack of evidence does not necessarily imply God’s nonexistence; it may simply reflect our limited understanding.

The Argument from Naturalism

Atheists argue that natural processes can explain all phenomena without invoking a divine being. However, this argument relies on an assumption about the nature of reality, which may be incomplete or inaccurate. Moreover, naturalism fails to provide a coherent account of morality and human free will.

Conclusion

In conclusion, atheism struggles to provide a coherent explanation for morality, human free will, and the existence of evil. The problem of evil can be addressed by considering the value of moral freedom and the importance of accountability. Atheistic counterarguments, such as the argument from evil, lack of evidence, and naturalism, are insufficient to disprove God’s existence.

References

Craig, W. L. (2013). Reasonable Faith: Christian Truth and Apologetics. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.

Hick, J. (1966). Evil and the God of Love. London: Macmillan.

Plantinga, A. (1974). God, Freedom, and Evil. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans.

Quotes

  • “The existence of evil is not a problem for theism; it’s a problem for atheism.” - William Lane Craig
  • “If God did not exist, it would be necessary to invent him.” - Voltaire