The Problem of Evil: Epicurus vs Lactantius
The Logical Problem of Evil
The ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus(341–270 BCE) best articulated the logical problem of evil. His paradox lays bare the apparent contradiction between the existence of evil and the traditional concept of an omnipotent, omniscient, and benevolent God.
The earliest dated evidence for Epicurus’s statement about the problem of evil is found in the writings of the Roman philosopher Lactantius (c. 240–325 CE). Lactantius was a Christian apologist, and he wrote a book called The Divine Institutes in which he argued against Epicurus’s views on the problem of evil. In one passage, Lactantius quotes Epicurus as saying:
“Is God willing to prevent evil but not able? Then, he is not omnipotent.” He continued, “Is he able but not willing? Then, he is malevolent. Is he both able and willing? Then whence cometh evil? Is he neither able nor willing? Then why call him God?”
This formulation challenges the very coherence of the traditional concept of God. It’s a question that has troubled many: if God is both all-powerful and all-good, how can evil exist? The logical problem of evil has led many philosophers to question the compatibility of these divine attributes with the observable reality of suffering and injustice in the world.
Lactantius, an early Christian author who lived in the 3rd and 4th centuries CE, is known for his response to the problem of evil, particularly in relation to Epicurus’s formulation.
In his work “Divine Institutes,” Lactantius directly addresses Epicurus’s argument, providing a defense of the existence of God in the face of evil. According to his argument, the presence of evil does not disprove the existence of God, but rather, evil arises from the choices made by humans.
According to Lactantius, humans have been granted free will by God, which enables them to make a choice between good and evil. This freedom to choose is essential to human dignity and moral responsibility. Therefore, the existence of evil is not a failure of God’s power, knowledge, or goodness but rather a consequence of human choices.
He also suggests that evil serves a purpose in the divine plan, providing opportunities for moral growth and the development of According to his argument, the presence of evil does not disprove the existence of God, but rather, it arises from the choices made by humans. such as patience and courage. Suffering and evil are seen as tests of faith and character, leading to spiritual growth and ultimate reward.
Lactantius’s response represents an early form of the Free Will Defense, a theodicy that has become one of the most common Christian responses to the problem of evil. By emphasizing human free will and the moral purpose of suffering, Lactantius seeks to reconcile the existence of evil with the belief in an all-powerful, all-knowing, and all-good God.
His writings provide an important historical perspective on the problem of evil and reflect the ongoing effort within Christian thought to address this profound and challenging issue.