The last four write-ups were meant to build a foundation for understanding and recognizing what’s happening around us. If we were to describe it in a single, well-known word, it would be evil. You might wonder why I am starting with such a seemingly negative perspective. However, by the end of this write-up, you may understand the point being raised—one that is based on the ground realities we face daily.
Evil exists in many forms, but do we always recognize it? Before identifying its major manifestations, we must first comprehend its nature.
The evils in society can vary depending on context, culture, and circumstances. However, some common issues are widely acknowledged as harmful:
- Corruption – When dishonesty, bribery, and misuse of power become rampant, they erode trust in institutions and hinder social progress.
- Inequality – Disparities in wealth, opportunities, and resources often lead to marginalization, social unrest, and division.
- Oppression – The prolonged abuse of power or unjust treatment of individuals or groups.
- Violence – Whether in the form of domestic abuse, crime, or conflicts, violence disrupts societal harmony and instills fear.
- Poverty – When large portions of a population lack access to basic needs like food, shelter, healthcare, and education, the overall well-being of society suffers.
- Environmental Degradation – Unsustainable resource exploitation, pollution, and climate change threaten both the planet and human life.
- Lack of Education – Ignorance and inadequate access to quality education perpetuate cycles of poverty, limit opportunities, and slow social progress.
Addressing these issues requires collective effort, awareness, policy changes, and a commitment to justice, equity, and sustainability. But the question remains: Even after identifying and addressing these problems, what has truly changed? Despite countless discussions, reforms, and efforts throughout history, much remains stagnant. Words without meaningful action achieve little.
So, what is the root cause of evil? And how can we create gradual yet significant change by addressing it at its core?
The first question is crucial to answer because it often leads people to question the philosophy of religion itself. As a Muslim, I will share my understanding, first in simple terms and then through a Quranic verse.
Imagine you have two candies—one sweet and one sour—but you can only choose one. Two friends stand beside you: one has tasted the sweet candy and suggests you choose it, while the other, having tasted the sour one, remains silent or insists on letting you experience it for yourself. Out of curiosity, you choose the sour one. Now, who made the wrong choice? Who bore the consequences?
The wrong choice is the root cause of evil, and the suffering it brings is merely its natural consequence. Punishment is often perceived as evil, but in reality, it is a result of one’s own actions. Evil is not a product of religion—it is a product of human decisions. As Allah states in the Quran:
"Indeed, Allah does not wrong people in the least, but it is people who wrong themselves." (Surah Yunus: 44)
Now, how do we address the second question? Reread the example and reflect on how we wrong ourselves daily. Identifying and taking responsibility for our own negligence is the first step toward meaningful change. Evil persists because we allow it to—through our choices, our silence, and our inaction. Recognizing this truth is the first step toward a better society.
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