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Flashcards in Miracles (Hume) Deck (7)
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1
Q

Facts about Hume (introduction)

A

18th Century “Enlightenment period”
Scottish
Empirical Induction
Contrary to common Christian beliefs of “miracles as proof of revelation and God”
Miracles are “violations of Laws of nature”

2
Q

Humes definition of miracles (short+long)

A

short: “violation of laws of nature”
long: “transgression it a law of nature by a particulate volition of the deity”

3
Q

Holland’s view of miracles?

A

Miracles “could be a set of coincidental events to which we give religious significance”

4
Q

Humes argument: Most miracle stories flcomr from uncivilised/barbaric nations?
Counter?

A

Widespread belief in many miracles in UK/USA. BUT fewer miracle reports in modern (more documented times)

5
Q

Humes 4 Practical Arguments against miracles:

A

1: Quality of WITNESS
2: PSYCHOLOGICAL exploitation
3: Not in MODERN times
4: ALL RELIGIONS have miracles. Can’t be all true

6
Q

Humes Argument: we should only believe miracles if we have solid evidence.
Supporting quote, and Strength?

A

“Wise men proportion their belief to the evidence”

STRENGTH: As miracles are unbelievable by definition then MORE CONTRARY EVIDENCE=MORE CAUTIOUS. Ockham’s razor > overturning laws

7
Q

Humes argument: Testimony: Quality of WITNESS.
Character, number of witnesses and any vested interest?
COUNTER?

A

COUNTER: all RELIGIOUS miracles are untrue due to VESTED INTEREST.

also HARD to judge character.