What is a trilemma?
Q: What is a trilemma?
A: A trilemma is a situation where there are three different options, each of which looks unfavorable.
Q: Who is credited with first using the concept of trilemma?
A: The Greek philosopher Epicurus is credited with the first use of the concept of trilemma.
Q: What is the trilemma as summarized by David Hume?
A: According to David Hume, the trilemma is as follows: If God is unable to prevent evil, then he is not all-powerful. If God is not willing to prevent evil, then he is not all-good. If God is both willing and able to prevent evil, then why does it exist?
Q: What is the "problem of evil" in philosophy?
A: The "problem of evil" in philosophy refers to discussions and debates about the trilemma, specifically concerning the existence of evil and the nature of God.
Q: Who else has been suggested as the possible author of the trilemma, aside from Epicurus?
A: It has been suggested that the trilemma may actually be the work of an early skeptic writer, possibly Carneades.
Q: What is the argument against the existence of an all-powerful and all-good God based on the trilemma?
A: The argument against the existence of an all-powerful and all-good God is based on the logical inconsistency presented by the trilemma. If God is both willing and able to prevent evil, then evil should not exist.
Q: What is the significance of the trilemma in philosophy?
A: The trilemma is significant in philosophy as it presents a challenging problem that continues to be debated and discussed by philosophers, theologians, and others interested in the nature of God and the existence of evil.
