The Design Argument: Key Words

Question 1

Analogy

Answer 1

To get to analogy, you need to start with inference which is a conclusion which is reached through both evidence and reasoning. An analogy, therefore, is an inference where information or meaning is transferred from one subject to another.

Question 2

Anthropic Principle

Answer 2

The belief that there is a direct link between our observation of the universe and the ‘boundary conditions’ which brought it into existence.

Question 3

Anthropomorphism

Answer 3

The habit of attributing human forms or ideas to beings other than humans.

Question 4

A Posteriori

Answer 4

This is where arguments are dependent on empirical evidence.

Question 5

Inductive

Answer 5

This is where the argument supplies strong evidence to the argument but does not reach a logically necessary conclusion, so it means that God’s existence is only probable.

Question 6

Natural Theology

Answer 6

The view that questions about God’s existence, nature and attributes can be answered without referring to scripture or to any form of special revelation, by using reason, science, history and observation.

Question 7

Omni-benevolent

Answer 7

All-loving

Question 8

Omnipotent

Answer 8

All-Powerful

Question 9

Premise

Answer 9

A proposition that supports, or lends support to a conclusion.

Question 10

Teleological

Answer 10

Seeks to prove that we can perceive evidence of deliberate design in the natural world.