Ace CCORDING to the author, evil is a very real entity, a consequence of sin and God's hand of judgment on a fallen world, which may not be ignored or explained away, but which must be confronted, rec- ognized for what it is, and challenged. Living with the reality of evil is an active, not a passive, exercise. This book provides a theological/philosophical account of evil and a practical, existential program for living in the face of it.

After a discussion of the three major types of evil (natural, moral, and demonic), the author surveys four major conceptions of evil; namely, evil as ultimate (Manichaeism), evil as necessary (Hegel, Schleier- macher, and others), evil as non-being (Platonism). and evil as alienation from God (Augustine and Calvin). Taking his stand within the framework of Augustine and Calvin, the author proceeds to apply this perspec- tive to a series of practical and existential questions about evil: Must we always avert our eyes from man- ifestations of evil? Is all interest in conflict morally or spiritually unhealthy? Is there any place for the depic- tion of violence? Can pornography be distinguished from legitimate art? What role is there for imagination. sympathy, and emphathic re-living in humankind's struggle against evil?

The author concludes by arguing that the only re- sponse to the problem of evil is eschatology, a proc- lamation of the ultimate triumph of the Kingdom of God and the final overthrow of the forces of evil