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Atheism Quote by Richard Dawkins

“A designer God cannot be used to explain organized complexity because any God capable of designing anything would have to be complex enough to demand the same kind of explanation in his own right.” quote by Richard Dawkins
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“A designer God cannot be used to explain organized complexity because any God capable of designing anything would have to be complex enough to demand the same kind of explanation in his own right.”

Richard Dawkins

About This Quote

Source Book: The God Delusion, Richard Dawkins, 2006

Complexity cannot be explained by invoking a designer, because the designer would itself require explanation.

In simple terms: A designer god can't explain complexity.

Key Takeaway

Avoid circular explanations.

Themes

philosophy science theology

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • debates on intelligent design
  • science education
  • philosophical discussions
  • theology
  • public policy

Key Concepts

complexity explanatory power causality

Questions to Reflect On

  • What would a simple designer look like?
  • Can complexity arise without a designer?
A Different Perspective

Assumes a deity could be simple, which many argue is unlikely.

2.2 out of 5 (7 ratings)

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