John Hick

• What did Hick do?

  Developed the soul-making theodicy
• What is the soul making theodicy?

  We need evil and suffering to grow morally, this Earth is a vale of soul making
• What was John Hick?

  A pluralist
• What is pluralism?


  All people will eventually reach salvation
• What does Hick say about pluralism?


  “Only if heaven contains the entire human race, can it justify the sins and suffering of the entire human race throughout history”
• What are the strengths of the vale of soul making?

  • Fits modern beliefs
  • Non-literal approach to the bible
  • Emphasises building a relationship with God
  • Supports a benevolent God
  • Provides a purpose for evil
• What are the weaknesses of the vale of soul making?

  • Imbalance of suffering
  • Sometimes suffering doesn’t lead to benefits or learning
  • Why do animals and young children suffer
  • Sometimes suffering makes someone worse
  • Why do good if you’re going to heaven anyway?
  • Do we have free will if we are all going to heaven anyway?
• What does D. Z. Phillips say about Hicks approach?


  Only an evil God would plan for evil in the world, and make people suffer to earn freedom