Dostoyevsky on the Problem of Evil

Abstract

Dostoyevsky in The Brothers Karamazov gives the character Ivan one of the more gripping articulations of the problem of evil in Western letters. Ivan's monologue is often cited by philosophers. Yet, its power is seldom well explained, and Dostoyevsky's own response diffused throughout the novel receives even less attention by philosophical commentators. This article examines the distinctive character of both Ivan's rebellion and Dostoyevsky's use of the novel in responding to it. Dostoyevsky's insights emerge as both powerful and arguably unique, particularly when juxtaposed with traditional approaches to the problem.