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What is Kalam Cosmological Argument?

The Kalam Cosmological Argument is a popular philosophical argument for the existence of God that has its roots in Islamic philosophy, particularly within the tradition of Islamic scholastic theology known as “Kalam.” The argument seeks to demonstrate that the universe has a cause for its existence, and this cause is posited to be God. 

 

The Kalam Cosmological Argument can be summarized in a logical form with the following premises and conclusion:

  1. Premise 1: Everything that begins to exist has a cause.
    This premise asserts that things do not simply come into existence from nothing without a cause. The idea is that for anything that begins to exist, there must be something that caused it to come into being.
  2. Premise 2: The universe began to exist.
    This premise claims that the universe is not eternal and had a definitive beginning. It is supported by both philosophical arguments (such as the impossibility of an actual infinite regress of events) and scientific evidence (like the Big Bang theory, which suggests a finite starting point in time).
  3. Conclusion: Therefore, the universe has a cause.
    From these premises, the conclusion is drawn that the universe must have been caused to exist by something that is itself uncaused, which is often identified as God.

 

The Kalam Cosmological Argument differs from other cosmological arguments in that it specifically hinges on the idea that the universe has a temporal beginning. This argument has been revitalized in modern times, most notably by philosopher William Lane Craig, who expanded upon its classical roots to include further scientific and philosophical support.

 

Key Concepts Related to the Argument:

  • Causality and Contingency: The argument relies on the principle that everything contingent (i.e., anything that could possibly not exist) must have an explanation or cause for its existence.
  • Temporal Finitude: By asserting that the universe began to exist, the Kalam argument engages with both ancient and contemporary discussions about the nature of time and the origin of the cosmos.
  • Metaphysical Implications: The argument posits that the cause of the universe must transcend the physical realm, suggesting attributes associated with the divine, such as timelessness, immateriality, and powerful agency.

 

The Kalam Cosmological Argument is influential in debates about the existence of God, engaging both philosophical reasoning and contemporary cosmological theories. It continues to be a significant point of discussion among theists and atheists alike.

 

Written by AI. A more correct, God given, explanation can be found here.