- Level: GCSE
- Subject: Religious Studies (Philosophy & Ethics)
- Word count: 2248
The design argument depends on key assumptions, in particular that the order in the universe in the universe of the result of
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Introduction
Priya Modi L6H Monday, October 10, 2005 Outline the design argument for the existence of God. "The design argument fails because of its weakness", examine and comment on this The design argument depends on key assumptions, in particular that the order in the universe is the result of a design rather than chance. Such proof of order in the universe is noticed, implying if it is designed their must therefore be a designer. The argument seeks to establish that the needs of human beings and animals have been planned for by intelligence, God. It implies the whole mechanism of evolution was put in place by God in order to bring about order, purpose and regularity instead of chaos. The design argument or also known as the teleological argument (telos is a Greek word meaning 'end' or 'purpose') is a posteriori argument meaning it is from experience or observation. The design argument would conclude to be an inductive argument which means one could agree with the premises but however may not necessarily agree with the conclusion as the premises do not apply absolute support for the conclusion. The most common and easy design argument to understand is written in the book 'Natural Theology' in 1802 by William Paley. ...read more.
Middle
The Aesthetic argument was bought across also by Tennant. He argues that we humans appreciate the natural beauty of the world- Art, music, and literature. But why do we appreciate them? Tennant puts forward the point that it is not compulsory for us to appreciate them as we do not need to for survival or development so therefore there must be a divine creator. "Our scientific knowledge brings us no nearer to understanding the beauty of music", Tennant. Richard Swinburne is a philosopher who agrees with Anthropic Principle. Swinburne argues that it comes down to probabilities, what is the probability that the universe was chance or designed? He concluded that there must be a designer as the universe is so complex and could not have just happened randomly; therefore this designer must be God. The key features show some valid points in the design argument which leads to an intelligence. It is a logical argument and a posteriori where people can look at the evidence. However it is an inductive argument and therefore there could be other possible conclusions, these would be the weaknesses of the design argument. Previously mentioned David Hume wrote a book called 'Dialogues Concerning Natural Religion' with three main characters. ...read more.
Conclusion
The design argument is user friendly and easy to understand, so even if one does not agree with it, it is still respected. A philosopher called Kent said: "This proof always deserves to be mentioned with respect. It is the oldest, the clearest, and the most accordant with the common reason of mankind." The design argument is also much respected as it has been around along time ago which is a strength and must mean some people have agreed with the theories. Aquinas fifth ways was written in the thirteenth centaury. The design argument has its strengths and flaws, so can we say that it fails? If Order or design leads us to a God then it does not lead us to the kind of God we are searching for. The imperfections we observe in the world would link us to a far from perfect God. Through the arguments about design it is not sufficient to prove the existence of God. The theories can only be used to suggest a probability of God rather than a conclusive proof of God. This may satisfy some people like Tennant which shows that the arguments has worked as the aim of the argument is to convince people that God does exist. This however is not a conclusive proof of God, based on just good probability. God can only be accepted by first hand experience as we have no right or wrong way to prove his existence. ...read more.
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