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    Carmelics

    A reasoning platform. Break down any belief into clear reasons, explore both sides, and weigh the evidence honestly.

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    LoyalLoyalJusticeJustice
    Made withinDC&Austin
    Statements
    321,452
    Perspectives
    108,905
    Topics
    42
    Home/Original/inverse
    See Original
    Inverse View

    It is not the case that Aquinas argued that while revelation settles the question, unaided reason can establish that creation ex nihilo requires a temporal first moment.

    ?Set your confidence on the premises below to see your aggregate.

    Reasons For

    1 perspective
    Reason for
    ?
    • 1.Modern physics permits a causally closed, beginningless universe (e.g., quantum cosmology models).
      ?

      Think about whether this reason is strong or weak

    • 2.The principle of sufficient reason doesn't entail temporal priority; God could create eternally.
      ?

      Think about whether this reason is strong or weak

    • 3.Aquinas himself held God's knowledge is eternal, suggesting creation needn't have a temporal beginning.
      ?

      Think about whether this reason is strong or weak

    Reasons Against

    1 perspective
    Reason against
    ?
    • 1.An infinite regress of causes is metaphysically impossible; therefore creation requires a first cause.
      ?

      Think about whether this reason is strong or weak

    • 2.Actual infinities cannot exist in the physical world; a beginningless universe involves an actual infinite.
      ?

      Think about whether this reason is strong or weak

    • 3.Causation requires temporal priority; a causeless effect would violate basic logical principles.
      ?

      Think about whether this reason is strong or weak

    Next step

    Based on where you are in your exploration

    Strongest counterpoint
    Explore the most compelling reason on the other side.