In This Selection, Rowe Presents His Own Version of the Argument

question 1

True/False

In this selection, Rowe presents his own version of the argument from evil:
1. There exist instances of intense suffering which an omnipotent, omniscient being could have prevented without thereby losing some greater good or permitting some evil equally bad or worse.
2. An omniscient, wholly good being would prevent the occurrence of any intense suffering it could, unless it could not do so without thereby losing some greater good or permitting some evil equally bad or worse.
3. [Therefore] there does not exist an omnipotent, omniscient, wholly good being.
Concerning premise 2, Rowe declares, "In light of our experience and knowledge of the variety and scale of human and animal suffering in our world, the idea that none of this suffering could have been prevented by an omnipotent being without thereby losing a greater good or permitting an evil at least as bad seems an extraordinary absurd idea, quite beyond our belief."
-Rowe thinks that instances of intense suffering exist that an omnipotent, omniscient being could have prevented without losing some greater good or causing some evil equally bad or worse.

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Definitions:

Pros And Cons

The advantages (pros) and disadvantages (cons) of a specific decision, action, or situation.

Research

A systematic investigation into and study of materials, sources, etc., in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions.

Settling Down

The process of adopting a more stable and less erratic lifestyle, often associated with making long-term commitments in personal and professional domains.

Awakened

Refers to the state of being roused from sleep or gaining consciousness, or metaphorically, becoming aware of social or personal issues.