Philosophy Exam 1

Copi's Rules

A set of guidelines designed to aid in understanding logic, focusing on identifying valid versus invalid arguments.

The Cosmological Argument

An argument for the existence of God based on the existence of the universe and its beginning.

Hilbert's Hotel

A thought experiment demonstrating the concept of actual infinity, where a fully occupied hotel can still accommodate more guests.

The Kalam Cosmological Argument

An contemporary version of the cosmological argument stating that an infinite past is impossible and thus the universe must have a beginning.

Big Bang Theory

A scientific explanation for the origin of the universe, suggesting it expanded from a singular point.

Teleological Argument

An argument for the existence of God based on the perceived evidence of design in the natural world.

Pascal's Wager

A philosophical argument suggesting that it is in one's best interest to believe in God, as the potential benefits outweigh the costs.

Paradoxes of Theism

Type of philosophical problems that explore contradictions or puzzling aspects related to the nature of God.

The Problem of Evil

The philosophical dilemma concerning how an omniscient, omnipotent, and benevolent God can exist in the presence of evil.

Hawking's Alternative Model

A theoretical framework proposed by Stephen Hawking that offers an alternative to traditional cosmological arguments against the existence of an infinite past.

Oscillating Model

A theory suggesting that the universe undergoes infinite cycles of expansion and contraction.