Liberum Arbitrium

Abstract

The main objective is Saint Augustine's interpretation of free will, the ability to choose between good and evil, and his comparison with the contemporary philosopher Nelson Pike. On the other hand, this philosophical study examines the concept of free will centered on the ideas of Saint Augustine of Hippo. The main focus of the work is Saint Augustine's interpretation of free will, defined as the ability to choose between good and evil. Saint Augustine argues that moral evil arises from the misuse of free will, not from divine creation. The analysis is presented using an in medias res approach, facilitating the understanding of its arguments. The differences between will and good will and their relationship to happiness and righteousness are explored. The study also addresses possible inconsistencies between divine omniscience and human freedom. Saint Augustine maintains that, although free will allows sin, it is essential for divine justice. This vision is confronted with contemporary criticisms, such as those of Nelson Pike and the paradox of Epicurus, which question the coexistence of an omnipotent and benevolent God with the presence of evil. In the final section, the author reflects on the limitations of the Augustinian interpretation of free will, arguing that Saint Augustine's vision presupposes an initially corrupt human will and that the threat of eternal damnation conditions freedom of choice.