Natural Theology

Paley's classic examination of Christian theology identifies and attributes aspects of human physiology to divine creation, arguing that the appearance of man itself is a basis upon which we can determine the existence of God. This edition includes the anatomical illustrations.

The book commences with the famous watchmaker analogy - the proposition that if you find a watch, you must assume there is a watchmaker. Going further, Paley points out that such a maker must have specifics of design in mind, and intentions for his creation. It follows therefore that all animals and humankind, as complex organisms, are creations; the middle chapters of the book sequentially examine aspects of human and creature anatomy which support this assertion. 

Paley conducts a wide-ranging investigation, wherein plants, birds, insects, mammals, humans and others are shown to be peculiar and thus a part of God's creation. The distinctness of certain organs, the valves of the heart, the intricacy of the skeletal musculature, and - in insects - the stings of wasps and probosces of bees, are cited in support of the overarching argument. Finally the astronomical heavens are mentioned as a sign of the creator's dazzling and intricate ability. 

The later chapters of the book are more overtly theological in tone; in particular, Paley is concerned with the personality of God. What attributes the creator might have, how great his abilities of planning and arrangement are, and how his being is essentially good since his creations can experience happiness and enjoy their existences. 

In the modern day, Natural Theology continues to be consulted both by creationists and by those seeking to understand the arguments of creationism. It is also read by modern scientists and atheists, that they may understand and counter the creationist arguments they disagree with.