Paley’s Analogical Argument In Observation

Question 1

Summary of argument?

Answer 1

Paley is transferring his inference about the organisation and design of watches to the organisation and design of nature

Question 2

Paley’s argument; Point 1.

Answer 2

Observation would point to the watch’s complexity and to the exact suitability of its parts and of their arrangement to serve the purpose.

Question 3

Paley’s argument; Point 1.

Answer 3

Observation would point to the watch’s complexity and to the exact suitability of its parts and of their arrangement to serve the purpose.

Question 4

Paley’s Argument; Point 2.

Answer 4

This could not have occurred by chance. A complete explanation requires reference to its purpose giver.

Question 5

Paley’s Argument; Point 3.

Answer 5

An intelligent watchmaker must have designed it.

Question 6

Paley’s Argument; Point 4.

Answer 6

The universe is complex, it shows the same precise stability of parts and arrangement of serve its purpose.

Question 7

Paley’s Argument; Point 5.

Answer 7

This could not have occurred by chance - it must have been designed by a universe maker.

Question 8

Paley’s Argument; Point 6.

Answer 8

The far greater complexity, etc. of the world requires an infinitely greater designer.

Question 9

Paley’s Argument; Point 7.

Answer 9

The universe designer is God.

Question 10

Further illustrations that Paley gave to support his argument…

Answer 10

• The eye is superbly adapted for vision - all the right parts in the right places to achieve its purpose
• Fish have fins and gills - perfectly adapted to survive in water
• Birds have feathers - bones + wings perfectly adapted for flight
• Stars, planets and comets - the universe is awe inspiring the greatest of God’s creations.

Question 11

Further illustrations that Paley gave to support his argument…

Answer 11

• The eye is superbly adapted for vision - all the right parts in the right places to achieve its purpose
• Fish have fins and gills - perfectly adapted to survive in water
• Birds have feathers - bones + wings perfectly adapted for flight
• Stars, planets and comets - the universe is awe inspiring the greatest of God’s creations.