There is no single fixed number of evils; instead, evils are categorized in several philosophical and theological frameworks with different classifications. Philosophically, evils can be understood in kinds such as:
- Empirical (observable harms and suffering)
- Metaphysical (lack or corruption in beings)
- Systemic (existing in systems or institutions across groups)
- Moral and natural evils (moral evils result from actions, natural evils from natural causes).
Philosopher Lars Svendsen identifies four types of evil:
- Demonic evil (evil for its own sake)
- Instrumental evil (evil as a means to an end)
- Idealistic evil (justified by some cause)
- Stupid evil (due to incompetence or error).
In demonology traditions, classifications often list various ranks and numbers of demonic evils, such as:
- Agrippa’s classifications include one chief, two chiefs, three furies, four princes, six authors of calamities, and nine princes representing various evils.
- Binsfeld’s classification relates seven princes of hell to the seven deadly sins.
Thus, evils are categorized by nature, motivation, and sometimes mythical or religious rank, without a single definitive count. The four philosophical types and various historical classifications of demonic evils are key frameworks used. If a specific tradition or context (philosophy, religion, folklore) is intended, please specify for a more tailored answer.