The Incoherence of Infinite Comprehensibility: A Critique of Atheism

Introduction

Atheism, the belief that God or a higher power does not exist, has been a dominant philosophical stance in modern times. However, upon closer examination, atheistic worldviews often rely on flawed assumptions and logical inconsistencies. This paper will argue that atheism fails to provide a coherent explanation of reality due to its inability to address the infinite nature of God.

The Infinite Nature of God

One of the fundamental attributes of God in many religious traditions is infinitude. Infinity, by definition, implies boundlessness, endlessness, and lack of limitation. The concept of infinity poses significant challenges for human understanding, as our finite minds struggle to grasp the infinite.

The Problem of Comprehensibility

Atheists often argue that if God exists, He must be comprehensible to humans. However, this assumption is problematic when considering an infinite being. If God is indeed infinite, it is unclear how finite human minds can fully comprehend Him.

As philosopher and theologian Thomas Aquinas noted:

“The existence of God can be proved by reason, but the nature of God transcends human understanding.” (Summa Theologica, I, Q. 12, A. 1)

The Limits of Human Knowledge

Our understanding is limited by our cognitive faculties, language, and experiences. These limitations imply that there are aspects of reality that may be beyond human comprehension.

Bertrand Russell, a prominent atheist philosopher, acknowledged the limits of human knowledge:

“The universe is not a cosmos, but a chaos; and the only truth is that there is no truth.” (Russell, 1903)

Infinite Comprehensibility: A Contradiction

If God is infinite, it is contradictory to assert that He can be fully comprehended by finite human minds. This would imply that the infinite can be bounded and understood within the limitations of human knowledge.

As philosopher and Christian apologist William Lane Craig argues:

“The idea that an infinite being could be comprehensively understood by a finite mind is a contradiction in terms.” (Craig, 2009)

Atheistic Responses

Some atheists might respond by arguing that God’s infinitude is not a problem for comprehension, as we can understand certain aspects of God without fully grasping His infinite nature.

However, this response raises more questions than it answers:

  • Which aspects of God’s nature can be understood, and how do we determine their boundaries?
  • If we can understand some aspects, why not others?
  • Does this not imply that our understanding is still limited by our finite minds?

Conclusion

The assertion that God is both infinite and comprehensible is inherently flawed. Atheism, in its attempt to dismiss the concept of God, fails to address the logical inconsistencies arising from the infinite nature of God.

In conclusion, a coherent explanation of reality must acknowledge the limitations of human knowledge and the contradictions inherent in attempting to comprehend an infinite being. The critique presented here challenges atheists to reexamine their assumptions about the existence of God or a higher power.

References

Craig, W. L. (2009). Reasonable Faith: Christian Truth and Apologetics. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.

Russell, B. (1903). The Problems of Philosophy. New York: Henry Holt and Company.

Thomas Aquinas. Summa Theologica. Translated by Fathers of the English Dominican Province. Christian Classics Ethereal Library.