Final answer:
True Gnostics believed in the possibility of enlightenment through esoteric knowledge rather than viewing mankind as inherently evil. Their views contrast with other historical beliefs about human nature's inherent goodness or evilness, such as those in Zoroastrianism and conservative thinkers like Joseph de Maistre. Different philosophies and religions offer varied interpretations of evil and its relation to divine perfection.
Step-by-step explanation:
The belief that True Gnostics do not believe that mankind is inherently evil ties into various theological and philosophical discussions throughout history regarding human nature and the origin of evil. The Gnostic worldview, which emerged in early Christian times, did not hold a belief in the inherent evil of mankind. Rather, Gnostics posited that spiritual enlightenment could liberate individuals from the material world, which they viewed as created by a lesser divine being. This enlightenment was seen as a path towards union with a higher, unknowable God, against the flawed material existence. Historical expressions of human nature's inherent goodness or evilness have varied. Zoroastrianism, dating back to the 12th century BCE, advocated a moral responsibility to choose good over evil, indicating that human nature is capable of good when not harming others. This contrasts with the views of Joseph de Maistre and other conservatives, who in the early nineteenth century proclaimed humans to be essentially depraved, needing strong societal structures to contain their inherent sinfulness.
Philosophies and religions have grappled with the concept of evil and its relationship to a perfect deity. Some, including St. Augustine, have suggested that evil entered the world through human action, specifically the fall recounted in Genesis. Others, like the proponents of theodicy, believe that evil serves a purpose in the divine plan, testing and growing human souls. Yet, there are debates within these frameworks as to whether evil can be considered another form of good or whether changes in understanding the deity itself might address the so-called Problem of Evil.
Gnostic beliefs contrast with these by focusing less on inborn human sinfulness and more on the potential for and achieved enlightenment through esoteric knowledge. This approach aligns with the ideas of Socrates, who suggested that people who commit wrongdoings do so out of ignorance rather than an inherent evil disposition.