‘For the creation waits with eager longing ...’: Panpsychism and the problem of evil
Theology in Scotland November 24, 2025 Joanna Leidenhag
Panpsychism, the view that every creature or created thing is conscious to some degree, is explored in relation to Christian theology and the problem of suffering. The paper opens with a reflection on Romans 8:17–25, where Paul comforts persecuted Christians by placing their suffering in solidarity with Christ and all creation. It outlines panpsychism as held by Process theology, noting biblical passages where nature praises God or laments sin. While panpsychism may seem to worsen the problem of evil, the paper suggests it can serve not as an intellectual theodicy but as part of the church's therapeutic or pastoral response to suffering.