Final answer:
The statement 'Sin corrupts everything' discusses the impact of sin on free will, notably in Christian theology. It explores Augustine's view of the dichotomy within human will and the necessity of divine grace, as well as the implications regarding the independence of morality from God and the broader philosophical debate on free will in the presence of an omniscient being.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement "Sin corrupts everything" suggests a theological perspective where free will is conditioned by the inherent sinful nature of humanity. According to St. Augustine, human beings have the power to choose the good despite the original sin. However, Augustine posits a battle between two wills: one inclined towards goodness and the other towards sinfulness. Divine grace is seen as necessary to reconcile this conflict, influencing one's ability to make righteous choices.
In Christian doctrine, it is believed that the human mind, corrupted by sin, is hostile to God until sin is addressed by divine intervention, making it possible for individuals to align with God's will. This brings up the philosophical dilemma of whether morals are intrinsically good or simply a reflection of God's decrees. If morality is independent of God's will, it challenges the need for divine guidance in moral decisions.
The presence of evil is often argued to be evidence of free will, yet the concept of an omniscient deity raises questions about the reality of our freedom. Furthermore, some philosophers propose that human beings bear complete responsibility for their actions and the state of the world, irrespective of divine intervention. Arguments by philosophers like Plato and Leibniz delve into the nature of our world as an imperfect imitation of a perfect form, and the potential necessity of evil for the actualization of a greater good.