Evolution & the problem of evil Flashcards
What is a strength of design arguments?
A strength of design arguments is that they are inductive and a posteriori
They are inductive and a posteriori, utilizing empirical evidence to support the conclusion that God exists, countering the skepticism of philosophers like Hume, Russell, and scientists like Dawkins.
What is Hume’s evidential problem of evil?
Weakness: Hume’s evidential problem of evil
It argues that proponents of the design argument ignore the presence of evil and imperfections in the world, undermining the notion of a perfect God inferred from design.
Who made the point that the presence of misery and suffering in the world contradicts the idea of a benevolent and omnipotent God?
Weakness: Hume’s evidential problem of evil
Charles Darwin, who questioned the design argument by highlighting instances of suffering and cruelty in nature
What was Charles Darwin and David Hume’s objection to the design argument?
Weakness: Hume’s evidential problem of evil
They argued that while the design argument may suggest a designer, it does not necessarily point to the specific attributes of the God of classical theism, such as omniscience, omnibenevolence, and omnipotence.
How does Paley defend the design argument against Hume’s critique?
Evaluation defending the design argument
Paley argues that just as even a broken watch implies a watchmaker, the complexity and purpose in the universe suggest a designer.
How does the design argument respond to Hume’s evidential problem of evil?
Evaluation defending the design argument
It often employs theodicies, explanations aimed at reconciling the existence of evil and suffering with the existence of a benevolent and omnipotent God.
What contemporary evidence challenges the design argument?
Evaluation criticizing the design argument
The long process of evolution, involving suffering and extinction over millions of years, is seen as evidence against the existence of a perfect, benevolent God.
