The Anatomy of Violence as a Problem of Evil
-A Theological Evaulation-
This study aims to evaluate the phenomenon of violence as a problem of
evil, examining its physical, psychological, and social dimensions from
a kalamic (Islamic theological) perspective. The concept of violence possesses
a structure too complex to be understood solely through individual
behavioral disorders. This phenomenon is addressed as a multi-layered
issue with moral, social, and theological dimensions within the
context of human actions. The nature and moral scope of violence are
analyzed through the concepts of human agency, free will (iradah), responsibility,
oppression (zulm), and justice within the science of Kalam.
The study examines the approaches of major theological schools, such
as the Mu‘tazila, Ash‘arism, and Maturidism, regarding human actions
and the problem of evil. The contributions of these perspectives to the
moral responsibility of violence and the status of the perpetrator are
presented. Highlighting that violence is not limited to physical attacks,
the study emphasizes that forms of oppression reproduced within social
relations—such as psychological pressure and social exclusion—
also entail moral responsibility.
In this research, school violence is addressed as a practical field that
embodies the multidimensional nature of violence. While violent behaviors
in educational institutions are evaluated within the framework
of individual will and responsibility, they are also analyzed in relation
to institutional factors. Furthermore, the phenomenon of victimization
is handled within the context of theodicy and the kalamic understanding
of justice. The study was conducted using literature review and text
analysis techniques within the scope of qualitative research methods.
In conclusion, this study points out that approaching violence solely
through punishment and discipline-oriented perspectives is insufficient.
By providing an evaluation centered on moral responsibility, the
cultivation of will, and justice, it offers an interdisciplinary perspective
between Kalam and educational sciences.
Keywords: Kalam; Violence; Problem of Evil; School Violence; Moral
Responsibility