Now, if anything at all can be known to be wrong, it seems to me to be unshakably certain that it would be wrong to make any sentient being suffer eternally for any offence whatever.
Although I was once sharply critical of the argument to design, I have since come to see that, when correctly formatted, this argument constitutes a persuasive case for the existence of God.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The author changed his perspective on the argument for design, recognizing it as a credible argument for God's existence.
Antony Flew explains that despite originally being critical of the design argument for the existence of God, his views evolved when he considered its formulation more thoroughly. He acknowledges that the argument, when articulated correctly, offers a compelling case that suggests the existence of a designer, which he interprets as God. This illustrates the importance of open-mindedness and the ability to change one's beliefs based on reasoned thought.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a philosophical debate on the existence of God, this quote could serve to introduce the idea that perspectives can shift over time.
More from Antony Flew
All quotes →What would have to occur or to have occurred to constitute for you a disproof of the love of, or the existence of, God?
Similar quotes
I find that it isn't wise to attempt to judge people on their public persona, and even on the music they make. Because I've met so many people whose music I cannot stand, and they're very nice. At the same time, I've met people whose music I've loved, and they're not the person you've invested all this emotion in.
A society in stable equilibrium is-by definition-one that has no history and wants no historians.
Swift has sailed into his rest; Savage indignation there Cannot lacerate his breast Imitate him if you dare, World-besotted traveler; he Served human liberty.
In the middle of the night, things well up from the past that are not always cause for rejoicing--the unsolved, the painful encounters, the mistakes, the reasons for shame or woe. But all, good or bad, give me food for thought, food to grow on.
For my future I have no concern, and as a true philosopher, I never would have any, for I know not what it may be: as a Christian, on the other hand, faith must believe without discussion, and the stronger it is, the more it keeps silent.
Ignorance of the law is no excuse in any country. If it were, the laws would lose their effect, because it can always be pretended.