Against Miracles
David Hume
The laws of nature have no exceptions
A miracle is a exception of the laws of nature
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A miracle cannot occur
Objections:
1. contradicts his view of cause and effect
2. maybe new undiscovered laws of nature could validate supernatural phenomenon
the "laws of nature" aren't fixed and
determined but are evolving.
What is a miracle?
A) something "extraordinary" out of the range of human experiences.
B) something supernatural, non-physical, spiritual-can't be explained materialistically.
3. definition A) seems to beg the question
( circular reasoning- defines miracles of existence)
The principle of credulity: your justified in believing a report under normal circumstances unless given a reason to doubt it.(doesn't apply to miracles)
What is right about Hume?
1. extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence.
The burden of proof always lies with the person making the extraordinary or supernatural claim!!!