Instructions:
Write a paper of roughly 1000-1250 words (4-5 pages) in response.
Instructions:
Write a paper of roughly 1000-1250 words (4-5 pages) in response. Papers should be typed, double-spaced, in 12-point font, with 1-inch margins. Outside sources should generally be avoided. If you do use outside sources, be sure to cite them (any standard citation style [MLA, APA, etc.] is acceptable).
Some advice: Notice that the prompts generally ask you to do two things: (1) explain an argument or position, and (2) evaluate that argument or position. Task (1) requires you to demonstrate that you understand what we have read and discussed in class. Task (2) requires you to use your own reasoning and arguments to evaluate the positions we’ve discussed in class.
You should strive for clear writing. You may have a brilliant argument, but if you don’t communicate it clearly, we won’t be able to give you credit for it. We will not be impressed by big words, but we will be impressed by clear, methodical writing that has an understandable progression. It can be helpful in this regard to do some “sign-posting”: first say what you are going to do, and then do it.
When you are evaluating an author’s argument, be sure to evaluate the content of that argument rather than their presentation of it.
Make sure you have answered all parts of the prompt.
In general, you should try to avoid doing outside reading in the preparation of these papers. The readings we have done for class should be sufficient.
Please cite your sources using any standard citation format (MLA, APA, etc.).
Class notes:
Paley- Design Argument
Rock- not obviously designed, no explanation for its origins
Watch- does seem designed, calls out for explanation
* The watch has a composition, intention
* Complexity
Watch analogous
* The world?
* Humans?
* Organs?
* Life?
* Universe?
1. Humans look designed (so does the whole world look design, like space isn’t suitable for humans)
2. If something looks designed, it must have a designer
3. Humans had a designer (God)
* Evolution could be a natural explanation for a design and not exactly have a designer
Paley pressures on point 2
Russell’s Responses:
1. Evolution by natural selection gives an alternative explanation for the appearance of design
Raises question about the designer of humans (God) who designed God??
This argument is a continues loop
2. (1)Some aspects of the world don’t look designed
3. (1) humans: fundamental physical constants
Law of metallic- a carpenter acting as wood to create a table
Fundamental physical constants? Gravity
Prompt: William Paley offers a “design argument” for the existence of God. Clearly outline Paley’s argument. Bertrand Russell gives two responses to the design argument. Clearly explain both of Russell’s responses, and in particular, show which part(s) of Paley’s argument he objects to. Finally, defend either Paley’s or Russell’s position with your own reasoning.
My own requests: Only cite Williams Paley’s essay
