.The Problem of Evil beyond Theism[J].Journal of Sun Yat-sen University(Social Science Edition),2026,66(02):112-123. DOI: 10.11714/jsysu.sse.202602011.
The “theological problem of evil” is a classic issue rooted in the Christian tradition. Its core lies in the tension between the omnipotence and perfect goodness of God and the imperfect state of the world. Theodicy is precisely the theoretical system developed to address this contradiction. Historically, this problem has often been conflated with the “problem of evil”. Yet, when the “problem of evil” is examined within a broader cultural context, it becomes evident that the latter is more fundamental and universal—it touches upon the in-depth inquiry into the position of human values in the universe. Beyond the framework of theism, responses to the “problem of evil” can be roughly divided into three categories: acceptance, denial, and the middle-ground compromise stance. This paradigm extensively covers numerous cultural systems such as those of India, China and Europe, reflecting the shared thinking structure of humanity when contemplating the order of values. Thus, the “problem of evil” is no longer confined to the Eurocentric theological perspective, but truly becomes a religious-philosophical subject with cross-cultural significance.