AS Design Argument

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A study of philosophical arguments about the existence of GodThe Thinker

„ Design — key ideas, strengths and weaknesses

The specification does not name or identify any particular version of the design argument and students will be credited with any version(s) relevant to the question. Notable examples may include Aquinas, Paley, Tennant, Swinburne.

Key ideas may include its empirical basis, interpretation of experience, role of analogy regarding cause and effect, cumulative effect of evidence, and notions of ‘God’ in this argument. Knowledge of these key concepts will be supplemented with an understanding and evaluation of its strengths and weaknesses. Students should be able to identify these features and make informed judgements about the merits, or otherwise, of these strengths and weaknesses.

For example, material from Hume, Mill, Kant, Darwin, Dawkins, including alternative interpretations, is appropriate.

Below are two videos covering a basic overview of the design argument which is excellent for revision.