Explaining evil / J. Harold Ellens, editor.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

V. 1. Definition and development -- volume 2. History, global views, and events -- volume 3. Approaches, responses, solutions.

In this three-volume set, international scholars from across a broad spectrum of scholarly fields examine the concept of evil throughout history and world cultures from religious, scientific, psychological, and political perspectives. What is evil? And what is the antidote to this universal malady, however it is defined? Traditionally, people have turned to religion when seeking a remedy to apparent evil. However, sociologists, psychologists, historians, philosophers, and even lawyers can also provide valuable insights in addressing the perplexing issue of evil. The manifestation of evil has provided a convenient theme for popular culture entertainment, ranging from the classic film The Exorcist, to almost all of Stephen King's horror novels, to video games such as Resident Evil. Unfortunately, dealing with{u2014}and attempting to overcome{u2014}the forces of evil is a pervasive problem in the real world as well. Explaining Evil addresses incidents of evil from ancient times to modern day around the globe. Concepts of evil within the big three religions{u2014}Christianity, Judaism, and Islam{u2014}are examined, as well as in Chinese philosophy and Native American beliefs. The political or national expressions of evil are explored, such as the "axis of evil" that culminated in World War II. These volumes identify the causes and effects of evil, and suggest possible remedies to humanity's inescapable flaw. Features 1. Contains original contributions from 75 distinguished scholars from various religious and cultural backgrounds, including psychologists, academic and clinical sociologists, historians, philosophers, theologians, and professors of political science, ethics, and law Highlights. 2. An unprecedented examination of the nature and origins of evil that offers an understanding of and strategies for combating evil. 3.Has a universal, personal appeal since every reader has direct experience with evil in his or her surrounding world