Original scientific paper

Cohen on the Kalam Cosmological Argument

Jacobus Erasmus orcid.org/0000-0003-0672-1653 ; North-West University – School of Philosophy, Faculty of Arts, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa

Abstract

Yishai Cohen raises three related objections to the kalam cosmological argument. Firstly, Cohen argues that, if the argument against the possibility of an actual infinite, which is used to support the kalam cosmological argument, is sound, then a predetermined endless future must also be impossible. Secondly, Cohen argues that the possibility of a predetermined endless future entails the possibility of an actual infinite. Finally, Cohen maintains that Robert C. Koons’ Grim Reaper paradox shows that a predetermined endless future is impossible. I intend to show that Cohen’s three arguments are not sound and that the possibility of an endless future is not a thorn in the kalam cosmological argument.

Keywords

Actual infinite; Yishai Cohen; Grim Reaper paradox; kalam cosmological argument; Wes Morriston; potential infinite

Hrčak ID:

164909

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/164909

Publication date:

31.5.2016.

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