The thing about the word evil is, it strongly implies some kind of consistently malevolent agency as its sponsor, in fact, consistently malevolent enough to define the agency’s over-riding character. Think Satan, for instance. Like Strega says, there’s the implication (if not certainty) that what’s behind the evil is supernatural agency.
It is human nature to demonize an enemy, especially an enemy that foments atrocities. Hitler’s a good example, and some if his henchmen. Here’s the thing… when theists use the word, they know what they’re saying, and it’s not only a valid word to them, but it’s clear to (e.g.) atheists what they mean. I’ve used the word often, but always with a flavor of hyperbole, just like a lot of other hyperbole that’s common in human language. And language is completely a human construct.
I’d say ISIS is evil. Ok, that’s hyperbolic, but I’d say it to their faces. After all, that’s how they think.
Unseen 7 years, 5 months ago.
