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The Problem of Evil in East and West: A Comparative View

The Problem of Evil in East and West: A Comparative View

The question of evil has perplexed human thought across cultures and millennia. Why does evil exist if the universe is guided by a higher power or cosmic order? This dilemma, known as the problem of evil, is a cornerstone in philosophy and theology. It forces us to confront the tension between suffering and the idea of a benevolent force, whether God, ultimate reality, or cosmic law.

This article explores how the problem of evil in East and West is understood through diverse religious, philosophical, and cultural lenses. We will look at Western theistic traditions—especially Christianity and its grappling with divine justice—as well as Eastern perspectives, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism, which approach suffering and evil from distinctive metaphysical frameworks.

I. What Is the Problem of Evil?

At its core, the problem of evil questions how evil and suffering can exist alongside an omnipotent, omnibenevolent God or ultimate reality. Philosophers often frame this issue through logical or evidential challenges:

  • Logical Problem of Evil: The argument that the existence of evil is logically incompatible with an all-powerful, all-good God.
  • Evidential Problem of Evil: The idea that the amount or kinds of evil in the world make it unlikely such a God exists.

This problem is traditionally articulated in Western philosophy but is deeply relevant to all cultures facing suffering and moral evil.

II. The Western Perspective: Theodicy and Divine Justice

A. Christian Theodicy

In Western thought, particularly within Christianity, the problem of evil is addressed through the doctrine of theodicy—attempts to justify God’s goodness despite evil’s presence.

  • Augustine’s Free Will Defense: Evil is a result of human free will. God created humans with freedom, and evil emerges when that freedom is misused.
  • Irenaean Theodicy: Evil and suffering are necessary for spiritual growth and soul-making; they provide opportunities for humans to develop virtues.
  • Privation Theory: Evil is not a substance but a lack or privation of good.

B. Jewish and Islamic Views

  • Judaism wrestles with suffering through stories like Job, emphasizing faith and mystery.
  • Islam sees evil as a test from Allah, with divine wisdom beyond human understanding, and stresses moral responsibility and submission.

III. The Eastern Perspective: Karma, Samsara, and Non-Duality

A. Hinduism and Karma

In Hindu philosophy, evil and suffering are often explained through karma, the law of moral cause and effect:

  • Suffering is the result of past actions, either in this life or previous ones.
  • The cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara) perpetuates suffering until one attains moksha—liberation.

God or ultimate reality (Brahman) transcends evil; the world is seen as maya (illusion), and ignorance (avidya) leads to suffering.

B. Buddhism: Dukkha and Liberation

Buddhism centers the problem of evil around dukkha—the inherent suffering or unsatisfactoriness of existence.

  • Evil is not a cosmic force but arises from craving, attachment, and ignorance.
  • There is no creator God to justify; instead, the path to end suffering is through the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.
  • The emphasis is on self-realization and overcoming the causes of suffering.

C. Taoism and Natural Harmony

Taoism views evil and suffering as disruptions of the natural balance of yin and yang.

  • Evil arises when there is disharmony or resistance to the Tao (the Way).
  • Instead of combating evil directly, Taoism advocates flowing with natural rhythms and accepting change.

IV. Contrasts and Convergences

  • Theism vs Non-Theism: Western traditions typically involve a personal God who is omnipotent and benevolent, while many Eastern traditions emphasize impersonal cosmic principles or non-theistic paths.
  • Moral vs Metaphysical Evil: Western thought often focuses on moral evil (human sin), whereas Eastern philosophies emphasize metaphysical ignorance and illusion as roots of suffering.
  • Purpose of Suffering: Christianity often sees suffering as redemptive or a test; Buddhism sees it as something to be transcended; Taoism as a natural process.

Despite these differences, both East and West seek to answer how humans should respond to evil—whether through faith, ethical living, meditation, or harmony.

V. Modern Responses and Philosophical Reflections

  • Existentialists and modern philosophers have questioned traditional theodicies, emphasizing human freedom and absurdity.
  • Interfaith dialogue explores complementary insights, suggesting a more pluralistic approach.
  • Contemporary philosophy of religion often integrates psychological, sociological, and scientific perspectives.

VI. Conclusion: The Problem of Evil as a Universal Challenge

The problem of evil in East and West reveals deep cultural and philosophical insights about suffering, morality, and the divine. While approaches differ—whether seeing evil as a test, illusion, or cosmic imbalance—the question continues to inspire profound reflection on human existence.

Understanding these perspectives enriches our appreciation of diverse worldviews and offers tools to face life’s challenges with wisdom and compassion.

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