27 MARCH 2004, Page 34

From Michael Lynch Sir: In his thought-provoking and lively piece.

Theodore Dalrymple ignores the fact that 'wicked' and 'evil' are theological terms and that it is the theology that gives the concept its meaning. Original Sin has not left a permanent blight on mankind. It has been redeemed by two connected acts: Christ's sacrifice in dying for man's sins and the sacrament of baptism. All who are baptised in Christ have the stain of Original Sin washed from them; they are no longer in thrall to evil. Wickedness is, therefore, not a natural condition but an aberration. That is what theology teaches.

Being a self-declared 'person without religious belief' does not entitle him to detach the concept from its moorings and use it simply because he finds its imagery appealing.

Michael Lynch

University of Leicester