Examine the Key Features of the Teleological Argument

Examine the key features of the Teleological argument. The word teleological comes from the Greek word ‘Telos’ which means purpose. The teleological argument is a posteriori and like the cosmological argument, attempts to prove the existence of God. It claims that certain phenomena within the universe appear to display features of design and are perfectly adapted to fulfil their function. Therefore, if features of the universe are so perfectly designed, for example the structure and function of the heart, then there must be a designer, which points towards the existence of God. The teleological argument is based around the idea that the universe in some way demands the existence of an intelligent being that designed the universe to†¦show more content†¦The Anthropic argument also features in the design argument and is similar to Paleys analogy. It looks at the purposes that every part of the world has (for example trees take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen that we breathe) and from these purpose-serving things in the world, the argument states it was placed there by a creator to serve this purpose. Tennant argued: â€Å"The many accidents of physics and astronomy have worked together to our benefit and shows that in some sense the universe must have seen us coming†. Examine the strengths and weakness of the Teleological argument. A major strength of the teleological argument is that it is logical. The design of the universe is apparent and evident for everyone to see, and everyone can appreciate that such beauty and design which the universe possesses requires a constant effort and input of energy to make it and keep it so. Richard Swinburne argued that the design and precision of the universe cannot be explained by science, and can only be explained in terms of the purposes of an intelligent being: God. He argues; â€Å"Of course there is order in the world: if there were not order, humanity would not exist to discover it!† As order is existent in the universe, the simplest explanation is God, and God is also the best explanation for the universe’s order. An additional Strength of the teleological argument isShow MoreRelatedReligion and Bioethics: Physician Assisted Suicide, a Religious Perspective2205 Words   |  9 Pagesto look at our two main theoretical camps: deontological or â€Å"Kantian† ethics, and teleological or â€Å"utilitarian† ethics. Both sides make valid points regarding this bioethical issue. Therefore, in order to form your own opinion/make conclusions on this matter, it is crucial to have substantial knowledge regarding the assertions on both sides of the argument – this is the only way in which to truly make sound arguments/draw valid conclusions. Immanuel Kant’s deontological theory of ethics is the normativeRead MoreEvaluating Utilitarianism - What are the main features of Utilitarianism as an ethical theory? Examine and consider criticisms that have been made against Utilitarianism.2151 Words   |  9 PagesWhat are the main features of Utilitarianism as an ethical theory? (10 marks) Examine and consider criticisms that have been made against Utilitarianism. (10 marks) Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that pivots around the belief that morality should be judged by consequence and the way in which an action can be deemed moral or immoral, depends upon the number to which it brings the greatest happiness. A decision can be defined as ethically correct under the theory of Utilitarianism if the moralRead MoreTheoretical Concept or Management Fashion? Examining the Significance of Imc4786 Words   |  20 Pagestheoretical robustness as well as its actual significance for marketing and advertising thought and practice. In an attempt to help remedy this situation, this articie examines IMC as a body of theory and hypothesizes its influence upon practice—as a theoretical concept, general idea, management technique, or simple rhetoric. The analysis and argument presented in this article suggests that IMC is a management fashion, apparent in its lack of definition and transient influence, and that its influence upon practiceRead MoreImportance of Ethics in Business as an Academic Discipline8970 Words   |  36 Pagesoverwhelmingly agree that the single measure that would most improve corporate governance is the establishment by senior management of an ethical business culture.† And, â€Å"Another clear message of the survey is that ethical leadership from the top is the key to reducing corporate malfeasance.† Considering the ethical failures in the last several years and the resulting crisis in confidence, a sincere commitment to creating and sustaining an ethical business culture in public and private sectors has neverRead MoreAppearance Discrimination in Employment22039 Words   |  89 Pages1108/02610151311305632 [pic]  Abstract [pic]  View PDF  (200kb) [pic]  Print View References †¢ References (67) Citations †¢ CrossRef (1) Further reading †¢ Related Content Search our articles for similar content †¢ Key readings Search our reviews for related items Marked list Top of Form Add to marked list:  Ã‚  [pic][pic] Bottom of Form Bookmark share   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Reprints permissions   [pic] Legal and ethical implications of â€Å"lookism† and â€Å"lookphobia† Read MoreThe Impact of Business Ethic on Organisational Performance14958 Words   |  60 Pages 34 4.1 Introduction ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------34 4.2 Ethical Theories ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------35 4.2.1 Teleological theory ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------36 4.2.2 Stakeholder theory ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------37 4.2.3 Agency theory VS stewardshipRead MoreOne Significant Change That Has Occurred in the World Between 1900 and 2005. Explain the Impact This Change Has Made on Our Lives and Why It Is an Important Change.163893 Words   |  656 Pagesaccessibility of primary documents and secondary works on world history in the past 100–150 years, which are clearly evident in the citations that accompany the essays in this collection, makes this neglect all the more lamentable. Taken together, the key themes and processes that have been selected as the focus for each of the eight essays provide a way to conceptualize the twentieth century as a coherent unit for teaching, as well as for written narrative and analysis. Though they do not exhaust