Problems from observation

Question 1

Evaluate Aquinas’ cosmological argument for God’s existence.
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Answer 1

1) Way 1 + 2 (motion and causation)
2) Illogical rejection of infinite regress
3) Way 3 - Logical leap to the God of classical theism and a necessary being

Question 2

Critically assess Aquinas’ Fifth Way.
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Answer 2

1) Inductive method + the flaws of observation (Hume’s criticisms)
2) Paley presents a more developed teleological argument but is still not successful
3) The logical leap to the God of classical theism and alternatives (chance and evolution)

Question 3

‘Paley’s teleological argument successfully defends the existence of God.’ Discuss.
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Answer 3

1) Weakness of the analogy + observation of purpose + induction
2) Logical leaap to the God of classical theism
3) The challenge of chance and alternative explainations

Question 4

‘The world was created by chance, not by God’s design.’ Discuss.
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Answer 4

1) Not chance: God’s design from complexity (flawed)
2) Not chance: Not God of classical theism (alternative deities)
3) It is chance: Evolution explains complexity

Question 5

To what extent does Hume successfully argue that observation does not prove the existence of God?
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Answer 5

1) Problems with observation fail (leap of faith is necessary)
2) Issues with the cosmological argument fail (big bang supports infinite regress)
3) Issues with the teleological argument fail (works with a theodicy)

Question 6

Exam Specification - arguments from observation

Answer 6

• Cosmological (Aquinas’ first three ways)
• Teleological (5th way and Paley)
• Challenges to arguments from observation (Hume + evolution)