The Design Argument: Paley

Question 1

Paley’s Analogy

Answer 1

If you stumble across a watch, you would assume there is a watch designer The same applies to the universe Why:Several parts Specific materials Works to a purpose Regular motions Indispensable parts

Question 2

Paley: human eye

Answer 2

It fits the criteria of needed a designer

Question 3

Paley quote

Answer 3

“The marks of existence are too strong, design must ave a designer. That designer must be god”

Question 4

How does Paley respond to flaws in the world

Answer 4

A flawed design still implies a designer

Question 5

does Paley support classic theism

Answer 5

No, just a designer of the universe. The designer may not be the classic theistic god

Question 6

Why are Paley and Aquinas both considered teleological thinkers?

Answer 6

Because they infer purpose and design from natural order.

Question 7

Paley: Strengths

Answer 7

based on observable evidence Has intuitive appeal, humans naturally infer design from complexity Still relevant -> fine tuning

Question 8

Paley: Weaknesses

Answer 8

Hume:weak analogy, the universe is not like a machine Flawed design implies an incompetent designer Could be multiple designersDarwin:natural selection explains biological complexity without god