Philosophical Debates: Existence, Morality, and Human Nature

Philosophical Perspectives on Existence and Morality

Thomas Aquinas: Arguments for God's Existence

In his cosmological arguments, Thomas Aquinas presents his explanations for God's existence. His first argument, the Argument from Contingency, posits that everything in our world is dependent on something else for its existence. Therefore, there must be an independent Prime Mover—a first cause—that initiated everything into motion at the beginning of the universe.

Aquinas's fourth argument, the Argument from Gradations of Perfection, suggests that if individuals can judge some things as more perfect than others, then an ultimate source of perfection must exist.

His fifth argument, the Argument from Design, explains that the universe exhibits an inherent order and purpose. This order, Aquinas argues, can only originate from an intelligent designer, interpreted as God.

Kierkegaard on Knowing God

Søren Kierkegaard believed that to foster a closer relationship with God, one should possess not only objective knowledge but also subjective knowing.

Comparing Aquinas and Kierkegaard

Aquinas's arguments are arguably stronger due to their logical explanations for God's existence. While Kierkegaard's emphasis on subjective knowing is agreeable to some extent, its commitment may not be universally achievable.

Human Features: Essential vs. Accidental

According to George and Lee, the essential features common to all humans include the ability to reason and to make free choices. These features are not necessarily immediately exercisable. In contrast, accidental features can vary significantly from person to person. Primary examples of these accidental features include:

• Race
• Ethnicity
• Disability
• Outer appearance
• Popularity
• Work status
• Intelligence
• Stage of development
• Sexual orientation
• Athletic abilities

Peter Singer and Moral Status

Peter Singer argues that all beings capable of experiencing suffering or enjoyment possess interests, which in turn grant them moral status. A related challenge arises when considering sentience, as principles based on emotional or physical desires might become satisfiable.

Critique of Singer's Argument

In my opinion, I disagree with Singer's argument. I believe that feeling pain or pleasure should not be the sole criterion for moral status, especially since these are often considered accidental features. Furthermore, since accidental features vary only from human to human, it is more appropriate to consider a broader concept for moral consideration rather than limiting it to a small group based on specific sensations.