D.Z. Philipps 2004 Public Lecture 'Has the Logical Problem of Evil Been Solved?' and Discussion with Mario von der Ruhr

Tuesday, October 25, 2016 - 18:00
Renehan Hall, St Patrick’s College

D. Z. Philips (1934-2006) was one of the most important thinkers of the Swansea school and is, among other things, well known for his engagement with the problem of evil. In his book from 2005, 'The Problem of Evil and the Problem of God', he argues that the problem is inextricably linked to our conception of God and that the concept of God in recent philosophy of religion is problematic, even harmful. That intellectual inheritance, he claims, attempts to distinguish between logical and existential problems of evil and offers us distorted accounts of God's omnipotence and will. As a result, God is ridiculed out of existence or found unfit before the bar of decency. Yet Phillips elucidates in a second part a neglected tradition in which we reach a different understanding of God's presence amid suffering and which addresses the ultimate question of how God can be said to be with those who are crushed by life's afflictions. This new work is an ideal text for students of philosophy, religion, or theology, but it also speaks clearly to anyone who reflects seriously on the danger of adding to human evil by the way in which we write and think about it.

The recorded lecture from 2004 shown with the topic 'Has the Logical Problem of Evil Been Solved?' gives the unique opportunity to engage with the thought of this important thinker on this timeless topic and engage in discussion afterwards with Dr Mario von der Ruhr on the topic.

The lecture will be followed by a discussion and a wine reception.

All are welcome!