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2. Outline three parts of the cosmological argument - Edexcel - GCSE Religious Studies B - Question 2 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 2
2. Outline three parts of the cosmological argument. (a) Explain two issues raised by the problem of evil and suffering for Jews. (b) Explain two ways revelation m... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:2. Outline three parts of the cosmological argument - Edexcel - GCSE Religious Studies B - Question 2 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Outline three parts of the cosmological argument.
Answer
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Everything that exists must have a cause: This part asserts that nothing can come from nothing, and therefore everything that exists must have originated from something else.
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The universe exists and must have been caused: The cosmological argument posits that since the universe exists, it must have come into being through a cause that is outside of itself.
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The Almighty must therefore exist: The conclusion drawn is that since something must have caused the universe, and given the complexity of existence, it leads to the belief in a necessary being, often identified as the Almighty.
Step 2
Explain two issues raised by the problem of evil and suffering for Jews.
Answer
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The nature of God: The question arises regarding how an omnipotent, omniscient, and benevolent God could allow evil and suffering to exist. This challenges the traditional understanding of God in Jewish theology.
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The role of suffering: Suffering can lead some to question their faith, wondering if there is a divine purpose behind it or if it signifies God's absence. This raises concerns about faith and human understanding of divine justice.
Step 3
Explain two ways revelation may lead to belief in the Almighty.
Answer
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Scriptural accounts in the Tanakh: Revelations, such as those found in 1 Samuel 1 where God reassures Eli, affirm the belief in the Almighty. These texts provide direct evidence of divine communication, encouraging deeper faith.
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Teachings of the Torah: Belief in the Almighty is also reinforced through Torah revelations, particularly at Mount Sinai, where Moses received commandments from God. This act of revelation is critical for Orthodox Jews and serves to validate their faith.
Step 4
Evaluate this statement considering arguments for and against.
Answer
Arguments for the statement:
- The universe appears finely tuned for life, suggesting an intelligent designer.
- Philosophical arguments imply that the complexity of life must come from a purposeful source, supporting the notion of the Almighty as a designer.
Arguments against the statement:
- Scientific discoveries, such as the Big Bang theory, propose that the universe could arise from natural processes, questioning the need for a designer.
- The design argument may overlook the randomness inherent in evolution, as non-religious viewpoints suggest natural selection as an adequate explanation without the necessity of a divine designer.
Conclusion:
The statement about the design argument's affirmation of the Almighty is contentious, as it evokes valid arguments on both sides, exemplifying the deep philosophical divide on the nature of existence.