Soul-Making Theodicy
Religious Studies: KS3, topic 2.6.10
Soul-Making Theodicy
The Soul-Making Theodicy is another theodicy that argues that, although there is evil and suffering, it is still possible to believe in God.
Life as a soul-making test
- This second theodicy says that life is a test of character.
- Many religions believe that, after death, good people will enjoy eternal life with God.
- But how do we know who is or isn’t a good person without there being a kind of test?
- It is similar to asking how we can know who is good at Maths without class tests and an exam!
Life as a soul-making test (cont.)
- In this argument, the whole of life on earth is a test.
- Human beings face challenges, which involve suffering. They prove their character by the way they respond.
- If humans experience suffering themselves, they can show patience and endurance.
- If those dear to them suffer they can be kind and supportive.
- If people they do not know suffer, they can show their character by sharing their wealth or volunteering to help those in need.
Criticisms of life as a soul-making test
- The main problem some philosophers raise with the soul-making test is that of innocent suffering.
- Life as a test may make sense for those who are able to respond by showing courage and generosity.
- But what about children who die of starvation in parts of Africa?
- They can do nothing to help themselves, and often their parents are helpless too.
- In this case, they suffer so that other people can choose to help them (or choose not to help them).
More criticisms of life as a soul-making test
- Some say it’s strange that all-loving God allows starving babies to exist just to test the character of others.
- These are difficult questions to answer for those who believe in God.
- But, believers might ask you to consider what life would be like if we were really just like robots.
- Or, to try to imagine what life would be like if nothing ever went wrong.
Test yourself on Soul-Making Theodicy
How can humans prove their character when they experience suffering?
According to the soul-making theodicy, why do we need a test of character?