Which philosopher argued that the universe cannot be compared to a manufactured object like a watch?

The philosopher who argued that the universe cannot be compared to a manufactured object like a watch is David Hume. Hume is known for his skepticism regarding the argument from design, which claims that the complexity and order in the universe indicate a designer, similar to how a watch signifies a watchmaker. In his work, Hume points out that just because humans create designed objects that serve specific purposes, it does not necessarily follow that the universe operates under the same principles or has a similar cause. He emphasizes that the analogy between the universe and a watch is flawed because the universe is fundamentally different from human-made objects in terms of its origin, complexity, and functioning.

Hume's critique highlights that natural phenomena can often be explained by natural causes without the need to posit a divine designer. This perspective is significant in discussions about the nature of existence and the origins of the universe, contrasting with other figures like Mill, Dawkins, and Darwin, who focus on different philosophical ideas or scientific theories that may not directly critique the analogy Hume addresses.