Essay --

Madeline Hearons Introduction to Philosophy Dr. Butterfield 9 March 2014 The Problem of Evil â€Å"The problem of evil† has been a controversial topic for not only philosophers, but also people of different faiths all over the world. The problem of evil poses the questions that if there is a higher power, a perfect God, how can that higher power allow such evils to occur in this world? How could this perfect God create such evils in the world? How could he allow such suffering? As these questions have been asked, many philosophers have different thoughts and opinions on what kind of higher power really exists, and how evil can come from such a perfect and loving God. The example I have chosen poses the question of whether or not a perfect higher power really does exist. If a perfect God has created this world, why would he include evil? After researching different philosophers and their different views on the problem of evil, Gottfried Leibniz stuck out to me. I found comparing our views very interesting. The problem of evil proves contradiction in religious philosophy, that a perfect God may or may not exist (Pecornio, 1). If a perfect God exists, why would he put evil into our world and promote suffering? Some philosophers have argued that this suffering is consequence for our own sins. If you willingly choose a path of evil, then evil will present itself onto you. An example of this would be that if you know smoking is bad and can cause lung cancer, and you still choose to smoke, you â€Å"deserve† the evil consequence of getting lung cancer (Beebe, 1). The problem of evil pinpoints two types of evil: moral evil and natural evil. Moral evil is a type of evil that is caused by mankind itself, such as murder, abuse, and sexual... ...t mean that a God does not exist, but one that all knows, all-powerful, and all present does not exist. The Logical Problem of Evil explains this, going against Leibniz and his beliefs, but supports my example. I believe that Leibniz argument in persuasive and have some very valid points. In conclusion to the problem of evil, I think that your beliefs will lead you to follow a certain view on this topic. I also believe that you do not have to choose one certain side, that this topic is not black and white. The problem of evil can really make you think about the troubles of the world, and what the reason and cause for suffering is. Who do you believe is responsible? Is it a higher power, or your own actions that make these things happen? Religious views may lead you to believe one idea, but your logical sense may lead you to believe something completely different.