Abstract
This paper will examine the concept of evil through the lens of Saint Augustine's view of evil in Confessions and Socrates' view of evil in Meno. To do so, this paper will attempt to dissect both philosopher's argument regarding the obtainability of evil and take a logical, step-by-step approach to reach its conclusion. Ultimately, this paper will challenge Augustine's belief that it is possible to desire evil and instead argue for Socrates' belief that evil only exists insofar as we are ignorant of the good. After all, arguing for Socrates' belief on evil over Augustine's seems to be the most sensible path when taking into consideration the basis and method/validity of proof for both philosopher's argument. As a disclaimer, this paper is not attempting to define the existence of evil in a worldly or spiritual sense. Instead, this paper will attempt to break down the existence of evil insofar as it pertains to Augustine's discussion of evil in Confessions and Socrates' discussion of evil in Meno.
Recommended Citation
Tsang, Tommy
(2015)
"Ignorance Is Not Bliss,"
Akadimia Filosofia: Vol. 1:
Iss.
1, Article 7.
Available at:
https://research.library.fordham.edu/apps/vol1/iss1/7