Single Idea 21330

[catalogued under 29. Religion / D. Religious Issues / 3. Problem of Evil / d. Natural Evil]

Full Idea

In the clumsy provision which nature has made for the perpetual renewal of animal life, ...no human being ever comes into the world but another human being is literally stretched on the rack for hours or day, not unfrequently issuing in death.

Gist of Idea

Nature makes childbirth a miserable experience, often leading to the death of the mother

Source

John Stuart Mill (Nature and Utility of Religion [1874], p.116)

Book Reference

'The Existence of God', ed/tr. Hick,John [Macmillan 1964], p.116


A Reaction

This is a very powerful example, which is rarely cited in modern discussions.