Teleological argument

===Interacting whole===

The metaphysical theologian [[Norris Clarke]] shared an argument to his fellow professors at [[Fordham University]] that was popularised by [[Peter Kreeft]] in his "Twenty Arguments for the Existence of God" (1994). The argument states that as components are ordered universally in relation to one another, and are defined by these connections (for example, every two hydrogen atoms are ordered to form a compound with one oxygen atom.) Therefore, none of the parts are self-sufficient, and cannot be explained individually. However, the whole cannot be explained either because it is composed of separate beings and is not a whole. From here, three conclusions can be found: firstly, as the system cannot in any way explain itself, it requires an efficient cause. Secondly, it must be an intelligent mind because the unity transcends every part, and thus must have been conceived as an idea, because, by definition, only an idea can hold together elements without destroying or fusing their distinctness. An idea cannot exist without a creator, so there must be an intelligent mind. Thirdly, the creative mind must be transcendent, because if it were not, it would rely upon the system of space and time, despite having created it. Such an idea is absurd. As a conclusion, therefore, the universe relies upon a transcendent creative mind.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Twenty Arguments God's Existence by Peter Kreeft (& Ronald K. Tacelli) |url=http://www.peterkreeft.com/topics-more/20_arguments-gods-existence.htm#8 |website=www.peterkreeft.com}}</ref>