Aquinas' Fifth Way: Teleology
Aquinas' fifth cosmological argument arguing that natural objects lacking intellect act toward definite ends, which must be directed by an intelligent being. This teleological proof distinguishes purposeful order from random arrangement, suggesting divine direction of natural processes toward their goals.
Real World
An archer directs an arrow toward its target — Aquinas used this analogy to argue that unintelligent natural objects, like acorns consistently growing into oak trees rather than random organisms, must be directed by God.
Exam Focus
Clarify that Aquinas' Fifth Way argues from regularity in nature, not from complexity — avoid confusing it with Paley's argument.
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