The Theodicy Challenge and the Intelligibility of the World

Bibliographic Data

ID4313780
AuthorsMichał Oleksowicz (0000-0001-5591-0579, Nicolaus Copernicus University, corresponding author), Michał Kłosowski (0000-0001-7900-5899, Nicolaus Copernicus University)
Year2023
Volume14
Issue12
Pages1513
Publication date2023-12-07
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueReligions (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2077-1444 • E-ISSN: 2077-1444
PublisherMDPI AG (PUBLISHER • IT)
DOI10.3390/rel14121513
OpenAlexW4389453869
LanguageEN
Citations received1
References cited16

This paper revisits one of the most difficult theological issues, namely God's infinite goodness and the presence of pain and suffering in the natural world. We deepen the understanding of this problem by referring to the philosophical notion of the intelligibility of the world. We argue that pain and suffering are present in biological evolution as a "structural necessity" for the development of more complex structures from simpler ones. The struggle for existence works as a necessary condition for the development of a sophisticated order of nature at the expense of an increase in pain and suffering. If this is so, arguments justifying the ways of a good, omniscient, and omnipotent God in a world where evil and suffering are widespread seem to be undercut. Therefore, we argue that the astonishing intelligibility of nature may help to open our understanding of whatever nature may reveal of itself. This notion-analyzed from ontic and epistemic perspectives-seems to be crucial in reflecting the evolving world, not only from the scientific point of view but also from the theological one

Aesthetics · Epistemology · Ontic · Sociology · Theodicy · Paranormal Experiences and Beliefs · Philosophy · Religion, Ecology, and Ethics · Theology and Philosophy of Evil

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