Learning Journal Entry For Unit 3

Learning Journal Unit 3
Introduction
In this learning journal for Unit 3, I will discuss the key differences between monotheism and
polytheism, analyze the "Problem of Evil," and explore the compatibility of Humanism with
religious beliefs. I will provide supporting evidence and personal experiences to justify my
views.
1. Key Differences between Monotheism and Polytheism
Monotheism and polytheism are two distinct belief systems concerning the nature of deities.
Monotheism refers to the belief in a single deity, while polytheism involves the worship of
multiple gods and goddesses. The primary difference between these two systems lies in the
number of deities worshipped. Other significant differences include the nature of the deities,
the role of religion in society, and the concept of divine intervention.
One could argue that monotheism offers a more unified and coherent understanding of the
divine, as there is only one supreme being to worship and understand. In contrast, polytheism
can be more complex, as it involves understanding and relating to multiple deities, each with
their own attributes, roles, and spheres of influence. However, polytheism can also provide a
more diverse and nuanced understanding of the divine, allowing for a broader range of
human experiences and needs to be addressed.
Ultimately, whether one believes that monotheism or polytheism is better depends on

personal preference and the cultural context in which these beliefs are practiced. For
example, growing up in a predominantly monotheistic society might lead someone to favor
monotheism, while exposure to polytheistic cultures might incline another person towards
polytheism.
2. The "Problem of Evil" and Arguments for and against its View
The "Problem of Evil" is a philosophical issue that questions the existence of an omnipotent,
omniscient, and wholly good God in the face of evil and suffering in the world. Some argue
that if such a God exists, there would be no evil or suffering, while others maintain that the
existence of evil does not necessarily disprove the existence of such a God.
One argument against the Problem of Evil is the "Free Will Defense," which suggests that
God granted humans free will, allowing them to make their own choices, including those that
result in evil. This argument posits that without free will, human beings would not be truly
moral agents, and their actions would lack genuine meaning. However, this defense does not
fully explain why a purely good God would allow innocent people to suffer as a result of
others' choices.
In my view, the Problem of Evil is a complex issue with no definitive answer. It raises
questions about the nature of good and evil, human free will, and the role of suffering in our
lives. While I believe that a purely good God could exist, I also acknowledge that the
existence of evil and suffering is a significant challenge to this belief.
3. Humanism and its Compatibility with Religious Beliefs
Humanism is a philosophical and ethical stance that emphasizes the value and agency of
human beings. It focuses on the potential for individuals to shape their own lives and society
through reason, empathy, and a commitment to social justice. Humanists typically reject
supernatural explanations and instead emphasize the importance of human experience,
critical thinking, and scientific inquiry.
Thomas Paine, a humanist who believed in God and the afterlife, argued that a belief in a
higher power could coexist with humanistic principles. He believed that the existence of a
divine creator did not negate the importance of human reason and moral agency. Paine saw
God as the guiding force behind the natural world and human progress, rather than as an
interventionist deity.
In my own experience, I have found that humanism can be compatible with religious beliefs,
as long as the focus remains on the values of empathy, reason, and social justice. I grew up in
a religious household and later adopted a more humanistic worldview. I believe that both
perspectives can inform and enrich one another, as long as individuals are open to dialogue,
critical thinking, and mutual respect.
Conclusion
In this learning journal, I have explored the key differences between monotheism and
polytheism, analyzed the "Problem of Evil," and discussed the compatibility of Humanism
with religious beliefs. While there may be no definitive answers to these complex questions,
engaging with diverse perspectives and evidence can help us better understand the nature of
belief systems and the human experience. By fostering open-mindedness and critical
thinking, we can continue to grow and evolve in our understanding of the world and our place
within it.
1. Smart, J. J. C. (1996). The Free Will Defense. In D. Z. Phillips & C. G. Vargas (Eds.), The Existence of
God: Contemporary Philosophical Debates (pp. 133-148). Blackwell Publishers.
2. Gifford Lectures. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.giffordlectures.org/
3. Humanist Manifesto III. (1993). Retrieved from https://americanhumanist.org/what-is-

humanism/humanist-manifestos/humanist-manifesto-iii/
4. Paine, T. (1794). The Age of Reason. Retrieved from

https://www.gutenberg.org/files/19976/19976-h/19976-h.htm

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Learning Journal Unit 3

1. Key Differences between Monotheism and Polytheism

Ultimately, whether one believes that monotheism or polytheism is better depends on

3. Humanism and its Compatibility with Religious Beliefs

2. Gifford Lectures. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.giffordlectures.org/

3. Humanist Manifesto III. (1993). Retrieved from https://americanhumanist.org/what-is-

4. Paine, T. (1794). The Age of Reason. Retrieved from

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