19th Annual Student Research Conference
Social Science
Aiming at Anselm: Yet Another Attempt to Refute the Ontological Argument
Tyler S. Paytas
Dr. Stephen Pollard, Faculty Mentor
St. Anselm’s ontological argument is perhaps the most famous argument for God’s existence. Although the argument appears insufficient upon first glance, it is surprisingly difficult to demonstrate exactly what is wrong with it. Several of history’s great philosophers have wrestled with the argument attempting to dismiss it once and for all. While many such as Guanilo and Kant came close to sounding the argument’s death knell, the matter remains controversial to the present day. In our ongoing effort to find a solution to this problem, we will demonstrate how Anselm created a dilemma for himself through his use of ambiguous language. We will show how he has left himself with two options, both of which cause his argument to crumble under its own weight. This exercise is relevant to both the question of God’s existence, and the potential of human reason as a means of understanding the universe.
Keywords: Anselm, God, Ontological, Faith , Reason
Topic(s):Philosophy & Religion
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 10-3
Location: OP 2111
Time: 8:45