Richard Swinburne on Evil, Atonement, and Evidence Against God
Jan 15, 2025
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In this insightful discussion, philosopher Richard Swinburne, Emeritus Professor of Philosophy at the University of Oxford, dives deep into the existence of evil and its relation to divine nature. He argues the significance of free will in human suffering and explores the complexities of the Trinity and love within Christian theology. Additionally, Swinburne contrasts ancient sacrifices with Christ's unique atonement, examines the implications of resurrection, and addresses the moral significance of free will in defining one's spiritual fate.
Swinburne argues that the existence of evil does not invalidate God but emphasizes the necessity of free will for moral growth.
He compares God's right to allow suffering to parental authority, suggesting that limitations can lead to greater communal benefits.
The philosopher presents God's hiddenness as essential for genuine faith, enabling individuals to exercise moral agency and choose belief.
Deep dives
The Problem of Evil and Theodicy
The podcast addresses the philosophical challenge of evil as an argument against the existence of God, with Richard Swinburne arguing that while it poses questions, it does not serve as significant evidence against God's existence. He delineates between moral evils, caused by human actions, and natural evils, such as natural disasters, emphasizing that both types allow for the existence of free will. For Swinburne, the allowance of evils is integral to providing humans with real choices, thus promoting personal growth and character development. He posits that to possess genuine libertarian free will, individuals must have the freedom to choose actions that can lead to both good and evil.
Free Will and Moral Responsibility
Swinburne explores the significance of free will in shaping human character, asserting that the capacity for making poor choices can lead to human suffering. He contends that when individuals, whether victims or perpetrators of evil, exercise their free will, they contribute to the development of their own moral character. The choices made, whether positive or negative, create habits that gradually shape one’s moral sensitivity and integrity over time. This perspective suggests that suffering can be a pivotal aspect of personal development, emphasizing that individuals are responsible for their actions and the consequences they entail.
Divine Rights and Human Intervention
In discussing the rights of God to impose suffering, Swinburne draws parallels with parental authority, suggesting that just as parents can impose limitations for the sake of their children's well-being, God too has the right to allow suffering for a greater good. He argues that parents and the state often impose suffering that benefits the broader community, justifying similar divine actions when necessitated by greater purposes. The notion is that God, as the ultimate benefactor, can impose suffering if it serves a significant benefit, potentially extending to the afterlife rewards that outweigh earthly suffering. Through this lens, he asserts God's right to place humans in situations that challenge them morally, fostering their growth and development.
The Nature of God’s Hiddenness
The discussion pivots to the concept of God's hiddenness, which Richard Swinburne presents as a necessary condition for genuine moral agency. He critiques the idea that if God were more evident, everyone would believe, arguing that this would negate the opportunities for individuals to choose to believe and help others on their spiritual journey. This hiddenness allows room for doubt and the exercise of faith, cues that provide a fertile ground for moral choices to manifest meaningfully. Ultimately, Swinburne believes that this dynamic fosters character development, enabling people to pursue goodness without the constraint of divine certainty.
Heaven, Hell, and Human Destiny
Richard Swinburne articulates his views on eschatology, differentiating between the experiences of heaven and hell while discussing the nature of human destiny after death. He emphasizes that the ultimate fate of individuals is contingent upon their earthly character and choices, suggesting that a person’s development continues into the afterlife. The opportunity for moral growth exists beyond earthly life, allowing individuals who may not have fully formed their character the chance for redemption. Swinburne ultimately posits that God respects human autonomy, allowing all individuals to make significant choices that dictate their eternal destiny.
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Robert Lawrence Kuhn sits down with philosopher Richard Swinburne to embark on a retrospective of his views and arguments over his illustrious career. In this episode, they'll explore the problem of evil, atonement, resurrection, and more.
Richard Granville Swinburne FBA is an English philosopher. He is an Emeritus Professor of Philosophy at the University of Oxford. Over the last 50 years, Swinburne has been a proponent of philosophical arguments for the existence of God.
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