What does the term 'Contingent Beings' refer to in the Cosmological Argument?

The term 'Contingent Beings' in the context of the Cosmological Argument specifically refers to beings that depend on something else for their existence. These beings do not contain the reason for their existence within themselves; instead, their existence is contingent upon other factors or beings.

In philosophy, particularly in cosmological discussions, contingent beings are contrasted with necessary beings. A necessary being has the essence of its existence within itself and does not rely on anything else; it must exist. In contrast, contingent beings can either exist or not exist, depending on circumstances outside themselves, such as other beings or events.

This concept plays a crucial role in establishing arguments about the existence of a first cause or an ultimate explanation for existence, typically posited as a necessary being or God. Thus, option B accurately captures the essence of what contingent beings refer to in this philosophical context.