In the first two pieces, the reader is left to judge for himself which
interlocutor in the dialogue represents the thoughts of the author; but,
for the views put forward in the last, Hume accepts the responsibility.
Unfortunately, this essay deals almost wholly with the historical
development of theological ideas; and, on the question of the
philosophical foundation of theology, does little more than express the
writer's contentment with the argument from design.
"The whole frame of nature bespeaks an Intelligent Author; and no
rational inquirer can, after serious reflection, suspend his belief
a moment with regard to the primary principles of genuine Theism
and Religion.--(IV. p. 435.)
"Were men led into the apprehension of invisible, intelligent
power, by a contemplation of the works of nature, they could never
possibly entertain any conception but of one single being, who
bestowed existence and order on this vast machine, and adjusted all
its parts according to one regular plan or connected system. For
though, to persons of a certain turn of mind, it may not appear
altogether absurd, that several independent beings, endowed with
superior wisdom, might conspire in the contrivance and execution of
one regular plan, yet is this a merely arbitrary supposition,
which, even if allowed possible, must be confessed neither to be
supported by probability nor necessity.
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