PHIL101 - Teleological Arguments L4

Cosmological Argument

An argument that begins with general observations about the universe and focuses on the concept of cause.

Teleological Argument

An argument that starts from specific observations of order and design in the universe, focusing on purpose or design.

Argument from Design

A teleological argument that emphasizes the universe's significant order and the fitness of objects, suggesting an intelligent designer.

Paley’s Argument from Design

William Paley's analogy comparing the complexity of living organisms to a watch, claiming that such complexity implies an intelligent designer.

Non-Deductive Argument

An argument that implies conclusions without strict validity; Paley's argument is a key example.

Local Teleological Argument

Focus on specific parts of nature, such as the human eye, that exhibit signs of design.

Global Teleological Argument

Focus on the entire universe exhibiting design traits.

Hume’s Critique

David Hume's questioning of the comparison between the universe and a watch, suggesting the universe may be flawed.

Design without Designer

The concept that not every ordered appearance implies a designer; natural processes can create order.

Evolution vs. Teleological Argument

The analysis of phenomena needing explanation and considering alternative theories such as Darwin’s evolution.

Fossil Records

Evidence supporting Darwinian theory by showing gradual evolutionary changes.

Imperfection in Design

Examples like the human eye show issues that suggest historical evolution rather than intelligent design.

Predictive Equivalence Problem

The problem that both hypotheses of evolution and divine creation yield similar predictions.

Conceptions of Deity

The challenge in inferring a deity from design, as design does not necessarily imply a benevolent or singular designer.

Summary of Teleological Arguments

They are primarily non-deductive and have diminished strength with the evolution theory providing more robust explanations.