GCSE Philosophy and Ethics Practice Exam

What are some arguments against miracles as proof that God exists?

1. Miracles are always a result of divine intervention

2. Scientific and medical knowledge never changes

3. Inexplicable things do not necessarily mean the answer is God

4. The Virgin Mary consistently performs miracles

The correct answer is: Miracles are always a result of divine intervention

The assertion that miracles are always a result of divine intervention does not hold strong as an argument against miracles serving as proof of God’s existence. This perspective assumes a direct correlation between miraculous events and divine action, effectively eliminating the possibility of alternative explanations. However, the nature of miracles is often debated, and many argue that not all inexplicable phenomena necessarily require a divine source. Arguments against miracles as proof that God exists may center on the idea that inexplicable things do not necessarily denote divine activity. They could result from natural causes we do not yet understand or from psychological or sociocultural factors. Considering that scientific and medical knowledge evolves over time, suggesting that it never changes lacks realism. New discoveries often provide insights that can explain previously unexplainable phenomena, indicating that what might be initially perceived as a miracle could eventually be understood through scientific advancement. Lastly, the assertion about the Virgin Mary performing miracles does not solidify a case against miracles as proof of God's existence. Instead, it represents a specific belief or interpretation within a religious context, which does not universally apply or serve as a broader argument against the possibility of miracles proving God's existence. In conclusion, a more compelling argument against miracles as definitive proof of God’s existence revolves around the idea