The Watchmaker: my fav argument

[John 6IX Breezy]

Like all metaphysical arguments, it isn't something science can solve. We can only argue for or against it, more or less persuasively. That's why it's extremely important to be aware of one's prior metaphysical assumptions, and think about whether they are relevant in any given case. We wouldn't want to take a position merely out of habit.

Scientists often defer to philosophers whenever definitions and questions themselves need a better foundation. Earlier you mentioned the philosophy of aesthetics (which I knew little about). I've been looking into it and there is a large literature focused on the question of design. These two books review the topic and have chapters dedicated to disecting definitions, ontology, history, etc:

1. The Philosophy of Design - "The design theorist Christopher Jones, for example, suggested a definition of design as the intentional initiation of change."

2. Design: A Very Short Introduction - "Design, stripped to its essence, can be defined as the human capacity to shape and make our environment in ways without precedent in nature, to serve our needs and give meaning to our lives."