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University Of the People PHIL 1402-01 Learning Journal Unit 3 Michele Williams Instructor: Stephen Ababio Date: 2/18/2024

1. What are the key differences between monotheism and polytheism? Based on the Gifford Lecture reading (and any other reading you have done on the subject) what are other major differences between monotheism and polytheism? Do you think one is better than the other, and if so, why? Maybe you think that neither is better, or that there are no gods at all – explain and provide justification for y our views. Provide an example based on your experience. Introduction The basic differences between monotheism and polytheism in religious philosophy shape the theological environments of various cultures. Using information from numerous sources as well as the Gifford Lecture reading, this research examines the most important distinctions between these two faiths . Difference Between Monotheism & Polytheism ( September 29, 2021) Monotheism emphasizes a single, all-encompassing god and centers worship around it, emphasizing a cohesive and frequently intimate relationship between the individual and the divine. As comparison, polytheism entails the worship of several gods, each with unique characteristics and roles . A cohesive philosophy is promoted by monotheistic, which frequently leads to a centralized religious leadership, as highlighted in the Gifford Lecture reading. In contrast, a more dispersed

religious environment that accepts a variety of practices and interpretations is typically fostered by polytheism. Some interpretations emphasize subtle differences, such the character of divine-human interactions. Intimate relationships are frequently encouraged by monotheism, as people strive for a close connection with a single God. Contrarily, polytheism permits a wider variety of divine encounters, indicating a more varied spiritual experience . Difference Between Monotheism & Polytheism (September 29, 2021) Example: I explored the historic temples in India that were devoted to several polytheistic deities. My knowledge of polytheistic beliefs was enhanced by seeing the elaborate stories and responsibilities that were attributed to the various gods, which revealed the depth and complexity of the Indian world. Conclusion I explored the historic temples in India that were devoted to several polytheistic deities. My knowledge of polytheistic beliefs was enhanced by seeing the elaborate stories and responsibilities that were attributed to the various gods, which revealed the depth and complexity of the Indian world.

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2. Do you think there are good arguments explaining why a purely good God would allow bad things to happen to good people? Justify your views with your own arguments and references to the course materials . Introduction The theodicy or the effort to make sense of the coexistence of human suffering and a loving God, is a constant problem in theology and philosophical debate. Using readings from the course materials and the author's own thoughts, this analysis explores the reasons why a purely benevolent God could permit horrible things to happen to decent people. Jordan, Jeff, "Pragmatic Arguments and Belief in God", Jordan, Jeff (2006). . According to one viewpoint, adversity can either be a litmus test for faith or a source of spiritual development. According to Augustine's soul-building theodicy—which is covered in the course materials—adversity helps people grow in virtues like patience and compassion. This perspective sees suffering to help people become more self-aware. Jordan, Jeff, "Pragmatic Arguments and Belief in God. Jordan, Jeff (2006). In addition, moral decisions that result in pain are made possible by the idea of free will. The claim that God gave humans free will to enable moral agency is commonly linked to theodicy. The capacity for people to make decisions that cause pain and suffering is a result of this freedom.

For an introduction to the soul-building theodicy, Augustine's "City of God" is a fundamental work. The texts for the course on the theodicy and evil dilemma also include a variety of philosophical viewpoints, such as the defense of free will, put out by scholars such as Alvin Plantinga. O'Donnell, J. (2024, January 5). Plantinga contends that a world endowed with individual will and the possibility of suffering because of mortal decisions is worth more than one devoid of such autonomy. Value is found in the possibility of true love and virtue, as well as in the validity of moral decisions. Jordan, Jeff, "Pragmatic Arguments and Belief in God", Jordan, Jeff (2006). I connect with the notion that hardship can inspire individual and group resilience. The idea that hardship can promote growth is consistent with my personal experiences of conquering obstacles, even though it may not fully address the topic of why God allows suffering. Conclusion: Theodicy is still a complicated subject with many facets. The arguments give reasons for why a purely good deity might permit horrible things to happen to decent people, depending on Augustine's soul-building theodicy and Plantinga's free will defense. Even while these arguments offer conceptual frameworks, the deep mystery of suffering persists, and the search for knowledge poses challenges for both religious and philosophical investigations. 3. Although a humanist, Paine believed in God and the afterlife. Explain his reasoning and offer your own. Support your own reasoning with your personal example. Your

explanation should include a description of the fundamentals of Humanism and a discussion of the extent to which it is compatible with religious beliefs. Even though he considered himself a humanist, Thomas Paine believed in God and the existence of the afterlife. Using both personal experiences and the foundations of humanism, this essay examines Paine's logic and provides a personal viewpoint on the integration of humanism with spiritual ideas. Cartwright, M. (2023, December 27). Paine's viewpoint most likely resulted from his humanistic interpretation of God and the afterlife. It's possible that he saw God as an eternal power or as a moral compass that supported humanistic principles. In this sense, one could symbolically view the afterlife as the enduring influence that an individual leaves on society by their beliefs, deeds, and contributions. I've discovered compatibility in the idea of divinity as an expression of our common humanity via my investigation of humanism and spirituality. Although I do not subscribe to conventional religious teachings, I do believe that, within the humanistic framework, spiritual practice can take the shape of pursuing knowledge, empathy, and ethical living. Cartwright, M. (2023, December 27). Humanism promotes a worldview that rejects supernatural explanations and emphasizes the possibility of positive change by human endeavor, placing human experiences at the center. It is distinguished by a dedication to logic, science, and the importance of moral decision-making for the welfare of people and society. Humanism is compatible with a variety of religious faiths since it places a strong focus on individual autonomy and ethical conduct. People can incorporate humanistic concepts into their

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spiritual journeys, discovering shared interests in the advancement of moral ideals and the welfare of humanity . Conclusion: Thomas Paine's faith in God and a hereafter within the humanist framework illustrates how humanism can be flexible and spiritual belies lay in appreciating the intrinsic worth of human existence and the freedom of individuals to pursue their own interpretation of the divine. The confluence of spirituality and humanism highlights the richness of individual philosophical synthesis, much as Paine found harmony in his convictions. REFERENCES: Difference Between Monotheism & Polytheism September 29, 2021 https://whats-different.com/difference-between-monotheism-polytheism/

Jordan, Jeff, "Pragmatic Arguments and Belief in God", The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (Fall 2022 Edition), Edward N. Zalta & Uri Nodelman (eds.), URL = https://plato.stanford.edu/archives/fall2022/entries/pragmatic-belief-god/ O'Donnell, J. (2024, January 5). St. Augustine. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-Augustine Cartwright, M. (2023, December 27). Thomas Paine. World History Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://www.worldhistory.org/Thomas_Paine/

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