Subject
Good and evil Books
Best books
Ellen Gould Harmon White
The Great Controversy Between Christ and Satan
"The Great Controversy Between Christ and Satan" by Ellen Gould Harmon White is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the ongoing spiritual conflict between good and evil from a Christian perspective, focusing on the consequences of humanity's choices throughout history. It seeks to illuminate the relationship between divine providence and human agency, ultimately aiming to provide readers with understanding and hope in the face of moral struggles and cosmic battles. The opening of this work introduces the foundational themes of the great controversy, beginning with a poignant depiction of Jesus’ sorrow over Jerusalem’s future destruction due to its rejection of Him. White emphasizes the spiritual blindness and rebellion of the people, reflecting on the historical and prophetic significance of Jerusalem as the chosen city of God. The author sets the stage for exploring the broader themes of persecution, apostasy, and the eventual triumph of good over evil, indicating that the narrative will trace historical events and divine truths that shape the ongoing struggle between Christ and Satan. Through the lens of biblical interpretation, the opening lays the groundwork for deeper explorations into faith, redemption, and divine justice as the text progresses.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
The Fallen Star, or, the History of a False Religion by E.L. Bulwer; And, A Dissertation on the Origin of Evil by Lord Brougham
"The Fallen Star, or, the History of a False Religion" by E.L. Bulwer is a philosophical allegory interwoven with an exploration of theological themes, likely written during the early 19th century. The narrative contrasts the emergence of false religions and the power dynamics between divine forces and humanity, centering on the figure of Morven, the son of a herdsman, who aspires for greatness and struggles against the established norms of his society. The opening of the work introduces us to a celestial realm where the stars are portrayed as powerful overseers of humanity’s fate, addressing their dominion over earthly matters with stoic detachment. Among them, a lesser star, filled with discontent, desires a charge greater than his inferior lot among the more glorious stars. This desire leads to the archangel granting him the opportunity to influence a mortal named Morven. The stage is set for Morven’s philosophical journey, as he contemplates the nature of power, religion, and the human condition while gradually rising to prominence among his people through prophecy, deceit, and manipulation of the beliefs that govern their lives. In doing so, the text invites readers to reflect on the origins of religious beliefs and the human penchant for credulity in the face of supernatural claims.
C. F. (Charles Franklin) Wimberly
Is the Devil a Myth?
"Is the Devil a Myth?" by C. F. Wimberly is a theological treatise written in the early 20th century. The work explores the concept of evil, specifically examining whether the figure of the Devil or Satan is merely a myth or a real entity in human spiritual discourse. Wimberly presents a compelling case to address the pervasive belief in the existence of evil as a personal force rather than an abstract concept, emphasizing its implications on faith and morality. At the start of the book, the author sets the framework by discussing the contemporary discrediting of traditional religious beliefs and the escalation of crime and moral decay in society. He highlights the challenges posed by modernity, including a belief in the innate goodness of humanity that overlooks the existence of evil as a tangible force. The opening chapters argue that the roots of evil are inadequately explained by human depravity alone, suggesting instead that a malevolent personality, specifically the Devil, plays a significant role in human corruption and moral failure. Through various examples, Wimberly aims to illuminate the various manifestations of evil and its relentless grip on humanity, making a strong case for the need to acknowledge its reality.
George Herbert Palmer
The Nature of Goodness
"The Nature of Goodness" by George Herbert Palmer is a philosophical exploration written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the concept of goodness from both psychological and ethical perspectives, aiming to dissect what we mean by "goodness" and how it operates in human life. Palmer intends to unravel common misconceptions about goodness by distinguishing between intrinsic and extrinsic goodness, setting the stage for a deeper understanding of ethics. The beginning of "The Nature of Goodness" introduces the author's thesis that while goodness is a familiar concept, its true meaning is often perplexing and poorly understood. Palmer expresses the difficulty of defining goodness, explaining that it encompasses relative relationships to external purposes as well as its intrinsic qualities. He elaborates on various aspects of goodness and the challenges inherent in comprehending them, emphasizing the need for clarity and deeper reflection on this central ethical concept. The opening sets the tone for a rigorous inquiry designed to lead readers to a more nuanced appreciation of goodness as a pivotal element of ethical study.
G. Lowes (Goldsworthy Lowes) Dickinson
The Meaning of Good—A Dialogue
"The Meaning of Good—A Dialogue" by G. Lowes Dickinson is a philosophical dialogue published in the late 19th century. The work explores the nature of 'Good' through a series of discussions among characters who represent diverse opinions on moral philosophy. Central to the dialogue's exploration is the quest to define what constitutes Good, grappling with the skepticism and varying perceptions surrounding it. The opening of the book introduces the setting—a gathering of friends in a Swiss valley—and the characters engaged in a conversation about the nature of Good. The narrator reflects on the influence of a melancholic friend, Philip Audubon, whose life experiences have led him to question whether a universal Good truly exists, challenging the beliefs of the narrator and his other friends. The dialogue takes shape as they delve into competing ideas about morality, examining perspectives that see Good as a product of personal choice versus those that argue for a communal or collective Good. Through witty exchanges and philosophical musings, the characters articulate their doubts, beliefs, and arguments about the essence of Good, setting the stage for a deeper exploration in subsequent chapters.
Plato
Κριτίας, Ίππαρχος, Αντερασταί
"Κριτίας, Ίππαρχος, Αντερασταί" by Plato is a philosophical dialogue believed to have been written in the 4th century BC. This work likely serves as a sequel to Plato's earlier dialogue "Timaeus," and it focuses on the exploration of the ancient Athenian political structure and its contrasts with the fabled civilization of Atlantis. Through the characters of Timaeus, Critias, and Socrates, the dialogue unveils themes of governance, morality, and the lost wisdom of the ancient world. The opening of "Κριτίας" sets the stage for a discussion between the characters, primarily initiated by Timaeus and continued by Critias. Critias is preparing to recount the tale of a great war that once occurred between the Athenians and the inhabitants of the mythical island of Atlantis, delving into the nature of both societies. He emphasizes the importance of understanding their historical context and accomplishments, as he intends to illustrate the virtues of the Athenian state in contrast to that of Atlantis, which ultimately fell from grace due to hubris and moral decay. Critias's narrative begins with efforts to provide a detailed background on the political setup, geography, and contributions of ancient Athens before introducing the legendary Atlantis.
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