Philosophy of Religion: Design Argument

The Design Argument and God's Existence

• The design argument's validity is questioned, claiming it cannot prove God's existence

• Paley's argument is inductive and posteriori, drawing from empirical observations, concluding a designed universe.

• Paley likens the universe to a watch, implying a watchmaker (God) as the designer, because of its complex parts working together for a purpose.

Hume's Critique of the Design Argument

• Hume argues even if the universe seems designed, it doesn't necessarily prove a Christian God, a lesser designer might also be responsible.

• Hume notes that design doesn't prove the designer is of a specific type, therefore lack of direct proof

• Natural selection as an alternative explanation to design reduces the credibility of the design argument.

• Critique of imperfections in the world: imperfect world suggests a designer with limited power/knowledge.

• Anthropic principle: Universe is fine-tuned to support life, suggesting intentional design, however, Hume challenges the concept of a perfect and benevolent designer, considering evil/suffering.

Further Criticisms of Paley's Argument

• Hume points out Paley's assumption of human-like designer, anthropomorphism, which might not be accurate.

• Applying human experience/analogy to the universe is problematic as human design doesn't equate to the design of the entire universe.

• Implies inference of intelligence cannot be solely linked to human-like characteristics.

Explore the design argument's validity and critiques offered by Hume. This quiz examines the claims about God's existence and the implications of natural selection on the argument for design. Delve into philosophical reasoning regarding the complexity and imperfections of the universe.