Strengths And Weaknesses Of Hick's Soul Making Theodicy

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Strengths:
We are created at an epistemic distance from god.
Hick can use this to justify any form of evil, including animal suffering and pointless suffering because his thesis is that the end (heaven) justifies the means.
His argument that evil is justified because it is necessary for soul making is also a powerful argument. Humanity cannot develop without challenge, and suffering develops character.
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Hick's theodicy incorporates evolution as being part of the first stage of human development. so his theodicy fits generally with scientific evidence of the origins of the human race.
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Weaknesses:
Does not match up with some Christian teachings so is rejected by Christians.
If all human beings are saved, then what was the point in Jesus' crucifixion?
Argues for universal salvation. Everybody will reach God's kingdom, however long it takes.
If this is the case, then what is the point in a pilgrimage? If we are all going to get there, what is the point in the journey?
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The sum total of human and animal suffering and pain is not justified by the promise of heaven.
(Links to evidential)
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Other cards in this set

Card 2

Front

Hick's theodicy incorporates evolution as being part of the first stage of human development. so his theodicy fits generally with scientific evidence of the origins of the human race.

Back

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Card 3

Front

Weaknesses:
Does not match up with some Christian teachings so is rejected by Christians.
If all human beings are saved, then what was the point in Jesus' crucifixion?

Back

Preview of the front of card 3

Card 4

Front

The sum total of human and animal suffering and pain is not justified by the promise of heaven.
(Links to evidential)

Back

Preview of the front of card 4

Card 5

Front

5

Back

Preview of the front of card 5

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