Philosophy of Religion

A/S Revision

Cosmological Argument

Questions

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1. Define the following terms:

* a priori

* a posteriori

* ex nihilo

* theist

* deductive

* contingency

2. What are Aqunias' first Three Ways? Name and briefly describe each argument.

3. Outline the Kalam Cosmological Argument.

4. Who is the modern day supporter of the KCA? How did he develop it?

5. What are the main strengths of the C.A.?

6. Outline the Principle of Sufficient Reason. Who presented this argument?

7. How does the Big Bang theory both support and go against the C.A.?

8. Explain Hume's criticisms of the C.A.? Was he right? Give reasons for your answer.

9.  Explain Kant's criticisms of the C.A.? Was he right? Give reasons for your answer.

10. What did Russell (and later Hick) claim about the origins of the universe?

11. What was Copleston's response? Who was right and why?

12. Is the C.A. successful? Give reasons for your answer.