An attempted proof of God's existence based upon the premise that the universe is designed and therefore needs a designer: God.

A 'theoretical' proof for the existence of God based on reference to specific designs or purposes 'experienced' in nature. Kant regards this as a type of physicotheological argument. Viewed from the 'judicial' 'standpoint', however, it can provide good reasons for believing in God, reasons that support rather than endangering theism.

(Gk. teleos - “end” or “purpose”) A proof for the existence of God. The argument stated: Design requires a designer. The universe exhibits evidence of complex design. Therefore, the universe was designed by a cosmic architect (God). This argument has been advocated by many thinkers (Plato, St. Thomas Aquinas), but its most popular version was expressed by William Paley (the “watchmaker argument”).

A teleological argument (or a design argument) is an argument for the existence of God or a creator based on perceived evidence of order, purpose, design and/or direction in nature. The word "teleological" is derived from the Greek word telos, meaning end or purpose. Teleology is the supposition that there is purpose or directive principle in the works and processes of nature.