Cosmological argument

Definition

The cosmological argument is a philosophical argument for the existence of God, suggesting that everything that exists has a cause, and therefore, there must be an initial uncaused cause that initiated the universe. This argument highlights the need for an explanation of existence and seeks to connect observable realities with a transcendent source. It plays a crucial role in discussions surrounding the nature of the universe and the existence of a divine creator.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The cosmological argument can be traced back to ancient philosophers like Aristotle and was later developed by medieval thinkers such as Aquinas.
2. One of the primary forms of the cosmological argument is the principle of sufficient reason, which states that everything must have an explanation or cause.
3. The argument posits that an infinite regress of causes is not possible, thus leading to the conclusion of a necessary being.
4. Critics of the cosmological argument often question whether the concept of causation applies to the universe as a whole or if it can exist without a cause.
5. The cosmological argument has been influential in natural theology, as it seeks to provide rational support for belief in God based on empirical observations.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of contingency relate to the cosmological argument in explaining existence?
  • Contingency plays a vital role in the cosmological argument by asserting that many entities within our universe are contingent, meaning they depend on something else for their existence. This leads to the conclusion that there must be a necessary being that is not contingent on anything else. By linking contingent beings to a necessary cause, the cosmological argument aims to demonstrate the need for an ultimate explanation behind existence itself.
• Discuss how the Kalam Cosmological Argument adds a specific dimension to the traditional cosmological argument regarding the universe's beginning.
  • The Kalam Cosmological Argument specifically emphasizes that the universe had a beginning, which sets it apart from other forms of the cosmological argument. By arguing that an actual infinite cannot exist in reality, it concludes that since the universe began to exist, there must be a cause for its existence. This aspect highlights not only the necessity of a cause but also points toward a divine creator who initiated the universe at some point in time.
• Evaluate the criticisms of the cosmological argument and how they challenge its validity in supporting belief in God.
  • Critics of the cosmological argument raise significant challenges regarding its validity, particularly questioning whether causation applies universally or whether it is limited to events within time and space. Some argue that if everything needs a cause, then why doesn't God also require a cause? Others suggest alternatives like quantum mechanics where events may occur without clear causes. These critiques challenge believers to refine their arguments and consider counterarguments to strengthen their case for God's existence based on this reasoning.

Related terms

Contingency: The idea that certain entities depend on something else for their existence, implying that there must be something necessary that exists independently.

First Cause: A concept closely related to the cosmological argument, asserting that there must be an initial cause that itself is not caused by anything else.

Kalam Cosmological Argument: A specific form of the cosmological argument which asserts that the universe had a beginning and therefore must have had a cause.