Describe the significance/magnitude of the Fall for humanity?

Question

In your own words [in 1 or 2 sentences] describe the significance/magnitude of the fall for humanity?

Answer 1

It's not a one sentence answer.

The question itself needs unpacking as there are a number of assumptions contained in your question.

First, do you mean the Christian concept of "The Fall of Man" as expressed in the Christian Bible in the book of Genesis chapter 3 verses 1 through 21? If so, are you asking for 1) the scientific/biological significance of that account of the fall assuming the story is true in the literal sense, meaning that an actual “fall” took place? Or are you asking for 2) a theological exposition of what the Fall means in Christian theology (assuming that the story may or may not be true, but only has significance for what Christians claim to believe as a matter of faith)?

Note, there are different interpretations of the story of the fall all with different implications. For example, there are some interpretations that this was not a "fall" or downfall of man at all, but rather man's liberation event akin to the ancient Greek story of Prometheus giving fire to mankind to liberate them. There are also interpretations that the story itself is allegorical and that there was no literal fruit or serpent, but rather man's downfall was of a sexual nature. And there are other interpretations that the fall was merely a psychological event and other interpretations that Adam and Eve actually escaped from the Garden of Eden rather than having been kicked out or banished.

So, another possible answer to your question could be 3) to discuss the various interpretations of “the Fall” and their relative plausibility. 

Therefore, if you could refine your question, I could then attempt an answer.

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