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Divine Determinism and the Problem of Punishment: A Critical Analysis

Nwabuatu, Emmanuel Nnajiubah PhD

Abstract

This article critically examines the concept of divine determinism and its implications for the justification of punishment. Divine determinism posits that every event, including human actions, is predetermined by a divine being. This raises significant ethical and theological questions regarding moral responsibility and the legitimacy of punishment. By analyzing contemporary philosophical arguments, this paper aims to elucidate the challenges divine determinism presents to traditional notions of justice and moral accountability. This paper examines the philosophical tension between divine determinism and the justification of punishment, both divine and human. Furthermore, through critical analysis of historical and contemporary philosophical arguments, the paper explores how the concept of moral responsibility can be reconciled with deterministic frameworks, particularly in theological contexts. The paper equally argues that while divine determinism poses significant challenges to traditional justifications for punishment, alternative frameworks for understanding accountability and justice may offer potential resolutions to this apparent paradox.

Keywords

Divine DeterminismMoral ResponsibilityProblem of PunishmentFree Will and

References

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