Aquinas Cosmological argument Flashcards
(16 cards)
What is the Cosmological Argument?
An argument for the existence of God starting with observations from the existence of the universe
The argument explores why there is something rather than nothing.
Who posed the question ‘Why is there something rather than nothing?’
G.W.F. Leibniz
Leibniz was a philosopher from 1646 to 1716.
What is the focus of Elizabeth Anscombe’s questions regarding the universe?
Causal questions about the universe’s existence and its processes
Anscombe emphasizes the necessity of understanding what brought the universe into existence.
What are the three Ways of Aquinas’ Cosmological Argument?
Way 1: Motion, Way 2: Cause, Way 3: Contingency
Each Way presents a different approach to arguing for the existence of God.
What does Way One: The Argument from Motion explain?
It explains motion as the reduction from potentiality to actuality
Examples include changes like cold to warm or youth to old age.
What is the conclusion of Way One regarding the Unmoved Mover?
There must be an Unmoved Mover which is God
Aquinas argued that nothing can move or change by itself.
What does Way Two: The Argument from Cause state?
Everything is the result of a succession of causes and there must be a first cause that is uncaused
This first cause is referred to as the Uncaused Causer, which Aquinas identifies as God.
What is the key premise of Way Three: Contingency?
Everything in the universe is contingent and there must be a necessary being that brought things into existence
This necessary being cannot not exist and is identified as God.
Define ‘infinite regress’ as used in the context of the Cosmological Argument.
A chain of events going backwards forever
This concept is critical in arguing against an endless series of causes or movers.
What does ‘contingent’ mean?
Depends on something else for its existence; can cease to exist
Contingent beings require an external source for their existence.
What does ‘necessary’ mean in the context of Aquinas’ argument?
Must exist, cannot not exist. Holds the reason for its being within itself
Necessary beings are fundamental to the existence of contingent beings.
Evaluate the strengths of Aquinas’ Three Ways.
Provides a logical framework for discussing existence; appeals to common intuitions about causality and change
These strengths make the argument compelling to many.
Evaluate the weaknesses of Aquinas’ Three Ways.
Assumes a linear causation; may not account for quantum mechanics or modern cosmology
Critics argue that the argument relies on outdated philosophical assumptions.
What underlying assumptions can be found in the Cosmological Argument?
The universe requires an explanation; causation is linear; contingent beings need a necessary being
These assumptions are often challenged by alternative philosophical perspectives.
Can I explain Aquinas’ Three Ways (Cosmological Argument)?
Yes
This question prompts self-evaluation of understanding.
What have I learnt today?
Understanding of Aquinas’ Three Ways and their implications for the existence of God
Reflect on personal learning outcomes from the lesson.
