ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the problem of theodicy—that is, the problem of justifying God's ways in the face of the apparent imperfections and evil in the world, and of the apparent unfairness in the distribution of grace. It concerns the general theodicean strategy adopted by both Nicolas Malebranche and G. W. Leibniz. The chapter explains that understanding the nature of that relationship—particularly in comparing and assessing certain Malebranchian and Leibnizian doctrines—can be greatly facilitated by considering Arnauld as a critical intermediary. It argues that for Antoine Arnauld, whatever differences there may be between the two accounts would be outweighed by some crucial similarities not just in general theodicean strategy but also in the mechanics of the divine modus operandi in the realms of nature and grace. Both Arnauld and Leibniz appear to agree on the status of evil in the world.
