Lecture Notes: The Problem of Evil - The Irenaean Theodicy

Introduction to Theodicy

• Definition: A theodicy attempts to justify the existence of God, reconciling the existence of evil and suffering with a loving, powerful God.
• Focus: This lecture focuses on the Irenaean theodicy.

Background on Irenaean Theodicy

• Named After: 2nd-century philosopher and theologian, St. Irenaeus.
• Development: Further developed by 20th-century philosopher John Hick.

Key Concepts in Irenaean Theodicy

Two Stages of Human Creation

1. Image of God:
   • Humans share characteristics with God: consciousness, intelligence, moral nature.
2. Likeness of God:
   • Humans develop morally to be like God over time.
   • Human perfection is a potential, not a given.

Role of Free Will

• Moral Development: Genuine moral development requires free will, thus suffering and imperfections in the world are necessary.
• World's Imperfection: A perfect world would result in no real moral consequences and no opportunities for growth.

Philosophical Support

• Richard Swinburne: Argues that suffering enables the development of virtues like compassion, generosity, and selflessness.
• John Hick's Concept of Soul-Making:
  • God does not intervene in suffering to preserve human freedom.
  • Introduces the "epistemic distance" where God's existence is not overtly obvious, allowing for genuine moral actions.

Moral and Spiritual Development

• Suffering leads to higher moral development and soul-making.
• Not everyone achieves moral growth from suffering, but eventual universal salvation is proposed.

Criticisms of Irenaean Theodicy

1. Ends Justify the Means:
   • Ethical dilemma: is it acceptable for God to use suffering to achieve good?
2. Ineffective Suffering:
   • Not all suffering leads to moral growth; some leads to degradation.
3. Alternative Paths to Moral Growth:
   • Other non-suffering based challenges (e.g., exams, sports) could promote moral virtues.
4. Universal Salvation Fairness:
   • Questions on the necessity of moral actions if everyone eventually achieves salvation.

Conclusion

• Final Thoughts: Theodicy remains a complex and challenging topic, with many perspectives and criticisms.

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