PHIL1402 - 01 Introduction to Philosophy-Written Assignment Week 3
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May 21, 2024
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University of the People
PHIL1402 - 01: Introduction to Philosophy
Instructor Luis Teixera
Written Assignment – Unit 3
September 26, 2023
Introduction
The concepts of monotheism and polytheism have long been fundamental in shaping human beliefs and cultures. These belief systems offer distinct perspectives on the nature of divinity, the number of deities, and the relationship between humans and the divine. Additionally, the "Problem of Evil" raises profound philosophical questions about the compatibility of an all-
good, all-powerful, and all-knowing God with the existence of suffering and evil in the world. Furthermore, the philosophy of Humanism, exemplified by thinkers like Thomas Paine, challenges traditional religious beliefs while promoting reason, ethics, and the pursuit of human potential. In this discussion, we will explore the key differences between monotheism and polytheism, consider arguments related to the Problem of Evil, and examine the compatibility of Humanism with religious beliefs.
Key Differences Between Monotheism and Polytheism
Monotheism and polytheism represent contrasting approaches to understanding divinity and
spirituality. In monotheism, there exists a belief in a singular, all-powerful, and all-knowing
God who serves as the ultimate source of creation and morality (Nash, 2014). This
monotheistic God is often characterized by benevolence and moral perfection, serving as a
personal deity with whom individuals can establish a direct relationship.
On the other hand, polytheism acknowledges the existence of multiple gods or deities, each
possessing distinct attributes and domains of influence (Smith, 2016). These gods may vary
in power, knowledge, and morality, and they are often associated with specific aspects of life,
such as love, war, wisdom, or nature. Polytheistic belief systems encourage diverse forms of
worship and rituals directed toward different gods.
One notable difference is the number of deities venerated: monotheism focuses on the
worship of a single God, while polytheism involves the veneration of numerous gods.
Furthermore, monotheism often emphasizes the personal and intimate relationship between
the individual and the one God, whereas polytheism may involve seeking the favour of
different gods for various purposes.
Monotheistic beliefs typically attribute omnipotence, omniscience, and moral perfection to
God, while polytheistic gods may exhibit a range of attributes and may not necessarily
possess these qualities uniformly. Some polytheistic gods may have flaws or engage in
morally ambiguous actions, reflecting the complexities of human existence.
Whether one belief system is superior to the other is subjective and often dependent on
cultural, historical, and personal factors. Monotheism offers a unified and coherent
worldview, providing a single moral source and ethical framework. In contrast, polytheism
embraces diversity and multifaceted perspectives on spirituality, allowing for various
interpretations of the divine (Davies, 2007).
The Problem of Evil and Arguments
The "Problem of Evil" raises profound questions about the existence of evil and suffering in a
world governed by an all-good, all-powerful, and all-knowing God. This philosophical dilemma has led to arguments both for and against the coexistence of such a God with evil.
Arguments against the existence of an all-good God in the face of evil include the logical argument, which posits that the presence of gratuitous and unexplained suffering is incompatible with the concept of a benevolent God (Van Inwagen, 2006). Additionally, the evidential argument acknowledges that while some suffering may serve a greater purpose, the
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