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'God exists.' How far do you agree? - Scottish Highers Religious Moral and Philosophical Studies - Question 2 - 2019
Question 2
'God exists.' How far do you agree?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:'God exists.' How far do you agree? - Scottish Highers Religious Moral and Philosophical Studies - Question 2 - 2019
Step 1
Discussing the Existence of God
Answer
The claim 'God exists' can be examined from various philosophical and theological perspectives. To evaluate this statement, one must consider different arguments such as the cosmological argument, which suggests that everything that exists has a cause, leading to the conclusion that there must be an uncaused first cause, often identified as God.
Additionally, the teleological argument posits that the design and order in the universe imply a designer. The intricacy of nature and the laws of physics can be interpreted as evidence for a divine creator.
Step 2
Exploring Counterarguments
Answer
On the other hand, atheistic perspectives argue against the necessity of a divine being to explain existence. For example, the infinite regression argument posits that if every effect has a cause, extending this logic infinitely could negate the necessity of a first cause.
Furthermore, the problem of evil questions how an omnipotent and benevolent God could allow suffering and injustice to exist in the world, which challenges the idea of a deity.
Step 3
Personal Reflection on Agreement
Answer
In my evaluation of these arguments, I find that while there are compelling reasons to agree with the existence of God, such as the order and complexity of the universe, there are also significant counterarguments that suggest a non-theistic explanation for existence. My position leans towards an agnostic viewpoint, wherein I acknowledge the limitations of human understanding regarding divine existence.