Monton, Bradley (2008) Design Inferences in an Infinite Universe. [Preprint]

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Abstract

This paper addresses two main questions. First, how does one determine that something has the features it does as a result of design, as opposed to for example chance? Second, how are inferences to design affected when one makes the (plausible) assumption that the universe is spatially infinite? I will show that arguments for the existence of God based on the improbable development of life don’t go through under the supposition that the universe is spatially infinite. I will also show that the model of design inferences promulgated by William Dembski is flawed, because it has the consequence that one can never infer design in a spatially infinite universe. My model for design inferences has the (desirable) consequence that there are circumstances where a seeming miracle can count as evidence for the existence of God, even if one would expect that type of event to naturalistically occur in a spatially infinite universe.

Available Versions of this Item

• Design Inferences in an Infinite Universe. (deposited 14 Sep 2007)
  • Design Inferences in an Infinite Universe. (deposited 20 Apr 2008)[Currently Displayed]

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