Design Argument Flashcards
What is an inductive argument?
Argument that’s proof/ conclusion is based on previous experience, based on premises that don’t necessarily prove the conclusion.
Is design argument A priori or A posteriori?
A posteriori.
What does Aquinas’ fifth way argue?
Everything must work towards telos (end).
What is Aquinas’ argument in the design argument?
Objects cannot achieve best result by themselves- must be guided by intelligent being. Something lacking in intelligence cannot act with intelligence, therefore explanation of working towards an end must be explained by something with intelligence.
This intelligent being is God.
What is Paley’s argument?
Response to Hume criticism of Aquinas’ argument. Analogy of watch: watch and world show purpose, which is not an accident. Watch is designed to work to an end and needs a designer.
World works together towards an end of existence for humans, therefore needs a designer.
What is a cumulative argument?
Evidence accumulates, making it more likely that something is true. Each premise builds on the last.
What does Swinburne argue?
It is more probable that God exists than doesn’t. It is a cumulative argument. He says the universe could be explained by science but there is a better explanation.
What does F R Tennant argue?
There is a huge amount of beauty in the world, not necessary for life. He believes beauty cannot be explained by science.
What does Hume argue?
Criticises Aquinas’ fifth way. Has six points.
What does J S Mill point out?
Evil and suffering, and has a problem with the theory that God created good design.
What does Darwin point out?
Theory of evolution; viable alternative to how life appears in such a complicated state rather than design.
What does Dawkins point out?
Argued there is no God. Because of the flaws in the world, if there is a watchmaker, he must be blind.
