Lewis argues that free will is essential for genuine love and goodness to exist. He explains that God granted humans free will, knowing the risks involved, because it allows for the possibility of real love and moral choices. Lewis states, 'If God thinks this state of war in the universe a price worth paying for free will... then we may take it it is worth paying.' This idea is illustrated by comparing different beings: a cow, a dog, a child, an ordinary man, a man of genius, and a superhuman spirit. The better the material a creature is made of, the greater its potential for both good and evil. This highlights the importance of free will in achieving True goodness and love, despite the inherent risks. | C.S. Lewis | Mere Christianity

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The Necessity of Free Will

Lewis argues that free will is essential for genuine love and goodness to exist. He explains that God granted humans free will, knowing the risks involved, because it allows for the possibility of real love and moral choices. Lewis states, 'If God thinks this state of war in the universe a price worth paying for free will... then we may take it it is worth paying.' This idea is illustrated by comparing different beings: a cow, a dog, a child, an ordinary man, a man of genius, and a superhuman spirit. The better the material a creature is made of, the greater its potential for both good and evil. This highlights the importance of free will in achieving True goodness and love, despite the inherent risks.

-- C.S. Lewis