Introduction
It is important to note that the concepts of good and evil are complex and challenging to define, but I am firmly convinced they exist and are real. Therefore, I disagree with the statement that ‘there is no such thing as good and evil.’ There is a fundamental aspect of good and evil because they are universally recognized and practically useful, and evil is an outcome of ignorance.
Good and Evil
Firstly, I want to note that good and evil exist because humanity collectively recognizes them, indicating universality. For example, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is a prime manifestation of how good and evil are distinguished from each other based on secular beliefs and values (United Nations, 2023). Article 1 states: “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood” (United Nations, 2023, para. 3).
In other words, denying freedom, dignity, and fundamental rights for any person is an act of evil. This declaration does not require God or philosophical debate to settle this distinctive line between the given extremes. The fact that practically all nations agreed to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights means that there is universal recognition of what constitutes good and evil.
Secondly, connecting to the course concepts, wisdom tells us that evil is the lack of the former. For example, both Plato and Socrates believed that evil results from ignorance (Ahbel-Rappe, 2018). At first, it might sound incoherent since there are knowledgeable people who commit evil deeds. However, the opposite word for ignorance is not intelligence but rather wisdom and knowledge. A wise person would not act evilly because he has a well-formed judgment, which helps them properly weigh their self-interests against the consequences on others.
Thirdly, believing in good and evil is practical in my daily existence and that of anyone. If I can convince myself that evil and goodness do not exist, I might become a societal problem. There would be nothing to steal, cheat, lie, or even kill except the consequences. As long as the reward is greater than the implications of my actions, I will pursue it.
Therefore, on a subjective level, believing in the existence of good and evil is valuable and practical, just as believing in numbers is beneficial. Numbers do not exist in the real world since they are abstract concepts (Diodati, 2021). There is no ‘one apple’ because there is simply one with no ‘one’ to be seen, heard, or observed otherwise. However, believing in numbers has created modern prosperity and wealth through technology, engineering, and science.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the universal recognition, practical utility, and ignorance of evil substantiate my disagreement with the statement that ‘there is no such thing as good and evil.’ Acknowledging the existence of good and evil is crucial for establishing moral frameworks and guiding ethical decision-making. This understanding allows individuals and societies to progress toward the betterment of humanity. It creates a strong foundation for justice systems, ensuring fairness and accountability, ultimately contributing to a well-functioning society. Thus, the acknowledgment of good and evil is not only essential for personal development and growth but also for fostering harmonious and just societies around the world.
References
Ahbel-Rappe, S. (2018). Socratic ignorance and platonic knowledge in the dialogues of Plato. SUNY Press.
Diodati, M. (2021). Number. Medium. Web.
United Nations. (2023). Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Web.