Randomness and Providence: Defining the Problem(s)

Abstract

AbstractIn this chapter, we outline the various problems that ontological randomness is supposed to present to God’s providence, as understood by traditional monotheistic religions. We begin by defining various notions of randomness and identify putative examples. We then outline three conceptions of divine providence: Super Meticulous, Meticulous, and General Providence. We go on to articulate the problems that randomness is thought to pose for God’s providence, especially problems concerning God’s omnipotence, omniscience, and omnibenevolence. We explore how the different conceptions of God’s providence fare with respect to these problems and gesture toward some possible responses.