The Debate on the Nature of Good and Evil

The eternal question of whether people are inherently good or evil has been a topic of extensive debate. While some argue that our nature is fundamentally good, given our free will to choose between good and evil, others believe that evil comes naturally and is more about individual effort to be good.

Free Will and Choice

Yes, we have free will and we decide. All humanity is inherently good because, as God created us, we are all children of the same God, who is the Father of our spirits. Heavenly Father’s plan for us involves agency, allowing us to choose between good and evil and to learn from the consequences of our choices. Satan, with his strong influence, creates an environment where people are often led to make evil choices. However, many still choose to do good despite the challenges presented by evil influences.

God gave the Israelites a command to choose between good and bad in Deuteronomy 30:15–19. This emphasizes the importance of making conscious choices and the role of free will in determining the path we take in our lives.

Innate Goodness or Genetic Makeup?

However, the idea of innate goodness is often challenged by the notion that some people may be naturally predisposed to evil. Some individuals, often referred to as psychopaths, are born without a conscience and may exhibit behaviors that are considered evil. While this is a genetic factor that can be passed down through families, others may choose to be evil because they lack the effort to be good.

The choice to be evil can often be traced back to a lack of effort to be virtuous. Instances that lead to moral corruption may make some people question the inherent goodness of others. It is important to acknowledge that some individuals may not inherit a predisposition to evil but may be led to evil paths due to circumstances or personal choices.

The Nature of Evil: Subjective or Objective?

Evil is a subjective evaluation, not an objective characteristic. There is no empirical metric for evil. It exists within the individual's perception and is projected outward into the world. What one person perceives as evil, another might see as just or even admirable. Cultures, religions, and personal beliefs all shape our perceptions of what is deemed right or wrong.

Education and social norms play a significant role in shaping our views on morality. Schools and many religious institutions often promote the idea that we should do whatever we want, as long as we don't harm others. These teachings can sometimes lead to a lack of moral accountability among individuals, making it more difficult to differentiate right from wrong.

Conclusion

While the nature of human goodness and evil remains a deeply personal and philosophical question, the freewill and choice to be good prevails as a fundamental truth. God gives us the power to make choices, and it is our responsibility to use that power wisely. Whether good or evil is inherent in our nature or the result of our choices, it is ultimately up to each individual to decide and act on what they believe is right.

As we navigate the complexities of life, let us strive to choose good, recognizing that our actions have consequences, and that with free will comes the opportunity to make a positive impact on the world.