Thomas Aquinass Argument from Design

The Argument from Design is the fifth argument of Thomas Aquinas regarding the proofs
for Gods existence. The central idea of this argument is that, there exists so much intricate
detail, design and purpose in the world that we must suppose a creator. Aquinas argues that
the intricate difficulty and order in the universe can only be explained through the existence of a
Great Designer-God. This argument is considered to be an posteriori argument, meaning that
knowledge from a subject where based on mere observations or experiences. Therefore, the
conclusion is not claimed to follow with absolute certainty. This argument is also known as The
Teleological Argument. Teleology is the study of purpose, ends, and goals in natural
processes. Aquinas also believes that all things have an order or arrangement, and work for an
end. The order of the universe cannot be explained by chance, but only by design and purpose.
The skeleton of this argument is as follows:

1. Human artifacts are products of intelligent designs; they have a purpose.

2. The universe resembles these human artifacts.
3. Therefore: It is probable that the universe is a product of intelligent design, and has a
purpose.
4. However, the universe is vastly more complex and gigantic than a human artifact is.
5. Therefore: There is probably a powerful and vastly intelligent designer who created the
universe.

An example of this argument is: