As usual this is a two-part question:
(i) Explain the cosmological argument for the existence of God.
(ii) Comment on the view that the cosmological argument is convincing.
Firstly, remember that the notes are here.
The first part of the question is asking you to explain the cosmological argument in its various forms. Remember that the argument is NOT just singular. It is several arguments, all on the theme of “cause and effect”, that all form part of the wider argument. You need to bring out the differences in these arguments and explain how they relate to the idea of cause and effect.
The second part of the question is basically asking: “Is the cosmological argument any good?” This is where the criticisms of the argument come in.
- Why might some think the cosmological arguments are good? Why?
- Why might some disagree? Why?
- Are the criticisms convincing? Why?
- You get the idea…