Inherent evil?

[HerenIstarion]

So evil, in and of itself, on the moral level, is indeed an act of will, but one contrary to the predestination or fate that is inherent in our natures.

In Tolkien's case (and in mine as well) one should replace the word nature of the quote above with the word Eru (God), since Arda is marred from before it's beginning, and our nature is tainted by Original Sin. That's why elven hroar dwindle and fade, and why human beings can not be morally good just acting according to their nature. But the point concerning origin of evil is exactly true - Evil is just lack of Good. (BTW cf this thread)

[ December 24, 2002: Message edited by: HerenIstarion ]