Philosophy of Religion Terminology

Define inductive reasoning

Referred to as the ‘bottom up approach’. The conclusions drawn are the most likely answer not definite truth. Also just because the series of prepositions are true doesn’t mean the conclusion drawn will be.

Define deductive reasoning

Sometimes called the ‘top down approach’. If all prepositions are true, then the conclusion must be true. Unlike inductive reasoning there is no risk of inductive leaps taken.

Define ‘a posteriori’ arguments

Arguments that are based on empirical evidence and not purely reason

Define ‘a priori’ arguments

Arguments based on reason and logic alone. Like inductive reasoning, they don’t rely on empirical evidence.

What are the three different arguments for the existence of God?

• Teleological: the Design argument

• Cosmological: Everything depends on something else for existence. The universe depends on God for existence

• Ontological: Definition of God proves existence.