The Problem of Evil: An Introduction to the Practical Sciences (Classic Reprint) - Hardcover

Daniel Greenleaf Thompson

 
9780267448906: The Problem of Evil: An Introduction to the Practical Sciences (Classic Reprint)

Synopsis

Exploring the nature of good and evil and how science and religion can address them.

This introduction surveys what people mean by good and evil, and why the problem of evil remains central to discussions of theism, morality, and human life. It presents physical and moral evil, reviews major theories, and asks how belief systems and practical ethics can coexist with a rational view of the world.

The book treats evil as both a natural fact and a moral issue, separating physical evil from moral evil while highlighting their impact on everyday life. It traces the history of ideas about God, freedom, and responsibility, and it asks how science and religion can work together to reduce harm and improve human welfare.

What you will encounter includes clear explanations of key distinctions, summaries of competing theories, and a call for a practical, humane approach to religion and morality. It encourages readers to evaluate ideas by observation, experience, and compassion, rather than dogma alone.

  • Clear definitions of physical and moral evil and why they matter
  • Overview of major religious and philosophical responses to the problem of evil
  • Discussion of how science and religion can complement each other in moral inquiry
  • Calls for viewing others as agents with goals and ends, not mere forces of nature

Ideal for readers curious about philosophy, theology, and practical ethics, and for those seeking a rational approach to spirituality in the modern world.

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