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A cosmological argument can also sometimes be referred to as an argument from universal causation, an argument from first cause, the causal argument or the prime mover argument. The concept of causation is a principal underpinning idea in all cosmological arguments, particularly in affirming the necessity for a First Cause .
The Kalam cosmological argument was influenced by the concept of the prime mover, introduced by Aristotle.It originates in the works of theologian and philosopher John Philoponus (490–570 AD) [10] and was developed substantially under the medieval Islamic scholastic tradition during the Islamic Golden Age.
For example, in theology, the cosmological argument for the existence of God (pre-cosmic cosmogonic bearer of personhood) is an appeal to ideas concerning the origin of the universe and is thus cosmogonical. [15] Some religious cosmogonies have an impersonal first cause (for example Taoism). [16]
The cosmological argument, later attributed to Aristotle, thereby concludes that God exists. However, if the cosmos had a beginning, Aristotle argued, it would require an efficient first cause, a notion that Aristotle took to demonstrate a critical flaw. [22] [23] [24]
For example, the cosmological argument for the existence of God promises to increase quantitative parsimony by positing that there is one first cause instead of allowing an infinite chain of events. But it does so by decreasing qualitative parsimony: it posits God as a new type of entity.
Because this seemed to lead to an infinite regress, cosmological arguments before Avicenna concluded that some necessary cause (such as God) is needed to end the infinite chain. [13] However, Avicenna's argument does not preclude the possibility of an infinite regress. [12] [13]
Craig's work has resulted in contemporary interest in the argument, and in cosmological arguments in general. [58] [59] [60] Craig formulates his version of the argument as follows: Everything that begins to exist has a cause of its existence. The universe began to exist. Therefore, the universe has a cause of its existence. [55] [58]
Hegel died before finishing the book. It was to have three sections: (1) The Cosmological Argument; (2) The Teleological Argument; and (3) the Ontological Argument. Hegel died before beginning sections 2 and 3. His work is published today as incomplete, with only part of his Cosmological Argument intact.