Acceptable Quote by Richard Dawkins
“Hence, at the moment of the creation of the universe, God could also have activated evolution, with full knowledge of how it would turn out, perhaps even including our having this conversation. The idea that he could both foresee the future and also give us spirit and free will to carry out our own desires becomes entirely acceptable.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The God Del, Richard Dawkins, 2006
The quote suggests that an omniscient creator could set evolution in motion while still allowing genuine free will, reconciling divine foreknowledge with human agency.
In simple terms: God could know the future and still give us free will.
Key Takeaway
Accept that foreknowledge doesn’t eliminate personal responsibility.
Themes
theology
free will
determinism
science
philosophy
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- ethical debates
- personal decision making
- scientific education
- spiritual discussions
Key Concepts
Omniscience
evolution
compatibilism
Questions to Reflect On
- How does knowing the future affect moral choices?
- Can free will exist if outcomes are known?
A Different Perspective
It may oversimplify complex theological arguments about predestination.
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