RE: The Problem of Evil: A Primer for Atheists (pre-discusson)
August 31, 2012 at 12:04 am
(This post was last modified: August 31, 2012 at 12:05 am by idunno.)
(August 30, 2012 at 11:45 pm)Cthulhu Dreaming Wrote:(August 30, 2012 at 11:30 pm)idunno Wrote: Does anyone believe the Logical PoE is a sound argument against Christianity?
I wouldn't call it an argument against xtianity per se, as the argument predates it, however...
I believe it's one of many reasonable arguments against any deity claimed to be omniscient, omnipotent, and benevolent (omni- or otherwise). However, of a deity who didn't possess those traits, Epicurus would probably say "Why call him god?"
As to whether it is sound, I cannot say. What precisely is a g/God?
The question of a deity's existence or validity of worship of said deity is wholly uninteresting to me without establishing the claimed nature and properties of such a being. If there is a god or gods, I am unaware of them, and frankly, am about as interested in them as they appear to be in me - which is to say, not at all.
I think here's where I roll out the cheesy line, "He's interested in you"
Sure, it wasn't initially directed towards Christianity but it is being used today by some. I don't think it is a sound argument if the claim is that the existence of God and evil are mutually exclusive. You could turn it into a probabilistic argument as Vinny has suggested, but nobody can stand him apparently.
Vinny, if you aren't a poe and truly want to encourage more rigorous thinking (and I'd humbly suggest irenic approach to the debate) among your fellow atheists you may have to lose that accent and change your approach.
