The Problem of Evil and Indian Thought

by Arthur Herman

Beginning with the problem of evil in the west professor A.L. Herman traces the history of one of the most fascinating of all perennial philosophical puzzles. The author identifies some twenty one historical solutions to the problem which are then reduced to eight quite distinct solutions. Prof. Herman then turns in the second part of the book to the history of the problem of evil in Indian thought.

The author then joins the analysis of the problem of evil (taken from the first part of the book) to the Indian doctrine of rebirth in order to attempt a solution to the problem. By careful analysis the author shows that the doctrine of rebirth can satisfy the conditions already set forth as adequate for a solution to the problem of evil.

Genres: Religion, Philosophy

326 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 1993

About the author

Arthur L. Herman (born 1956) is an American popular historian, currently serving as a senior fellow at Hudson Institute. He generally employs the Great Man perspective in his work, which is 19th Century historical methodology attributing human events and their outcomes to the singular efforts of great men that has been refined and qualified by such modern thinkers as Sidney Hook.

Reviews

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Why do we suffer? Why does evil exist in our society? Who created it? Is God willing to remove evil but unable to, or is He able to do so but unwilling? Or is evil necessary, as Saint Augustine would say, for the greater good of the world? Augustine's Manichean doctrine proposes that two opposing powers, one malevolent and one benign, are fighting for control of humanity. This paradigm has shaped many explanations and solutions to the Problem of Evil.
Two types of evil are often distinguished: evil acts committed by individuals and suffering caused by evil.
Historical solutions to the Problem of Evil include free will - allowing humans to choose evil, consequences of sin, as evil balances the best possible creation. evil is not a thing but allowed by God and more…
The author explores Indian solutions, including karma, rebirth cycle, Brahman, the ultimate truth and the limitless existence.. He suggests (in the introduction chapter) tgat the Indian doctrine of transmigration offers a unique and convincing perspective on solving the theological Problem of Evil. This philosophical and theological puzzle has challenged thinkers throughout the history. If I can then I would love to read this book entirely which I am sure will take several months due to the complexity of the subject and my own pace of understanding .. The print is not that great but a good read.. It sparks further discussions, ignites curiosity, and inspires introspection, prompting one to delve deeper into exploration and contemplation…

[Quratulain · Rating 4 out of 5]

Incomplete arguments

[Pink · Rating 3 out of 5]

Deep and broad. Requires multiple read and interpretation may change time to time

[Vinod]

need to get some answers