Humes View of Miracles

In order to understand Hume’s critique of the belief in miracles, it is crucial to begin by defining what a miracle means. Pojman and Rea (2008) define a miracle as a supernatural event that work beyond human control. This is made clear by several instances in the Bible where miracles are said to have taken place.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Hume’s View of Miracles specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More One such is the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It is strongly believed that no human being can rise from the dead meaning that it was a miraculous act for Jesus to resurrect. In this regard, it is apparent that a miracle is based on one’s own reality and faith. However, Hume being a critic of miracles provides his own interpretation of what miracles means. According to Hume, a miracle is an infringement of the laws of nature, an occurrence, which is abnormal to a majority of humanki nd (Hume, 1985). Hume makes his point clear when he asserted, â€Å"Nothing is esteemed in a miracle if it has ever occurred in the common course of nature†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Hume, 1985, p.888). He proceeds to state that it is not a miracle when an individual in good health dies a sudden death. Hume claims that despite this death appearing peculiar it is natural. According to his understanding of miracle, he could only define it as a true miracle in case the deceased were to rise from dead the same way Jesus is claimed to have arisen. Hume (1985) argues that this will be considered a miracle because no such event has ever been witnessed. Therefore, Hume’s critique of miracle is purely based on his belief that miracles goes against the laws of nature. Van Inwagen’s problem with Hume’s understanding of miracles Peter Ivan Inwagen criticizes Hume’s understanding of miracles when Hume states that a miracle pertains to events, which run contrary to the experience of humankind. Inwagen criticizes this idea arguing that seeing what this idea amounts to is not easy. Therefore, by failing to find any other meaning of ‘contrary to experience’ capable of proving Hume’s assertions, Inwagen concludes that Hume’s understanding of miracles is a fallacy (Pojman and Rea, 2008). Hume’s four reasons in proof that miracles does not happen In defending his philosophy of what a true miracle means Hume provides four reasons to prove his claims. In his first criticism of miracles, Homes argue that there has never been a witness of a miraculous event throughout history to prove that a miracle has ever happened. Secondly, Hume disputes the existence of a miracle arguing that all that people chose to accept or believe in are based on experience and history. Hume’s third reason contradicting the belief in a miracle is based on testimony versus reality. In his argument, he states that what used to be considered miracles in the past can no longer be considered so in the present world or future. He claims that what somebody might have considered a miracle in the past must have been based on the individual’s perceptions and beliefs at that given time, which is bound to change with time.Advertising Looking for essay on philosophy? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Lastly, Hume discredits the belief in miracles arguing that for miracles to be said to have happened, there must be several witnesses to prove the miracle. In fact, Hume narrates several incidences that are claimed to have been miraculous while criticizing them using his four reasoning against miracles (Hume, 1985). Of all his reasons discrediting the belief in a miracle, I find the fourth point to be the most plausible. This is because, for us to belief that a questionable event like a miracle has happened witnesses must be present to prove the event otherwise the happening would not amount to a miracle. References Hume, D. (1985). Of miracles. New York, NY: Open Court. Pojman, L.P., Rea, M.C. (2008). Philosophy of religion: an anthology. Manson, OH: Cengage Learning. This essay on Hume’s View of Miracles was written and submitted by user Timothy Gomez to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Disability Attorneys of Michigan Charitable Contributions 2012 2013

Disability Attorneys of Michigan Charitable Contributions 2012 2013 Charitable Contributions in 2012 and 2013 Disability Attorneys of Michigan  is proud to announce that 2012 marked over $100,000 in charitable contributions made by our firm.We pride ourselves on giving back to the community – whether through monetary donations to local non-profits invested in our community or volunteering our time to help people and families in need. In 2012, our firm helped to provide a Christmas to more than 50 indigent children by supplying them with winter coats, clothing, and toys, in addition to donating almost 10,000 winter clothing items. Further, our employees participated in multiple free legal clinics throughout the year, assisting the community by providing pro bono legal advice, free food, and camaraderie.2013 was another eventful and successful year of community involvement and pro bono legal service!   On March 8, 2013, our firm provided a warm, nutritious meal for the members and patients at Detroit Central City (DCC).  DCC meets the needs of over 4,000 persons annually, providin g shelter, food, clothing, employment and treatment services.  In fact, DCC provides affordable services to many of our indigent clients who have been diagnosed with a severe and persistent mental illness.  We are thrilled to be able to support such a wonderful non-profit organization and help provide a healthy meal to individuals who sometimes go without such basic needs.On April 6, 2013, our attorneys and staff, along with our community partners, volunteered our time at a free legal clinic benefitting underserved populations in Detroit.  We helped make free pancake breakfasts and our attorneys gave free legal consultations to residents at Cass Community Social Services (CCSS).  CCSS is dedicated to making a profound difference in the diverse populations it serves by providing for basic needs to those who need it most, including affordable housing, promoting self-reliance and encouraging community inclusion and improvement.  On June 29, 2013, we hosted a Social Security,à ‚  Veterans Disability, and Wellness Clinic which offered the community pro bono legal advice in many different areas, community resources, hygiene products, activities for children, massages, yoga and self-defense classes, food, and more.During Christmas 2013, our firm helped to provide a Christmas to more than 50 indigent children by supplying them with winter coats, clothing, shoes, toys, and food. We also recognize organizations that assist homeless and indigent individuals in our community, especially those impacted by disabilities – through monetary donations to help develop their programs and sustain their mission. Check back at our website to find out new ways that you can get involved and help us make a difference in our community.