In what respect, then, do his benevolence and mercy resemble the benevolence and mercy of men?
EPICURUS's old questions are yet unanswered.

Is he willing to prevent evil, but not able?
then is he impotent.

Is he able, but not willing?
then is he malevolent.

Is he both able and willing?
whence then is evil?
You ascribe, CLEANTHES (and I believe justly), a purpose and intention to Nature.

But what, I beseech you, is the object of that curious artifice and machinery, which she has displayed in all animals?
The preservation alone of individuals, and propagation of the species.