Saint Anselm of Canterbury (1033-1109), was a brilliant theologian and philosopher. In order to understand his famous ontological proof of the existence of God, it is important to read the text from the perspective of a medieval monk. This means that his motto faith seeking understanding (fides quaerens intellectum) is spoken as a prayer. It is not, as one would likely assume today, a question of doubt about the existence of God. In contrast, since God had revealed himself, doubt was not a question for a medieval monk like Anselm. What, however, a theologian as Anslem was seeking was contemplation about the mystery of God, the omnipotent, omnipresent, omniscient One.
In preparation of the group discussion for this week, analyze the ontological argument independently. Pay attention to Anselms distinction between existence in understanding and existence in reality. Check unfamiliar philosophical terms in the Glossary.
Please develop a critical response in form of an argument with the group (wiki): Do you agree or disagree with Anselms claim: Lord you are not only that than which no greater than can be conceived. It is possible to conceive something of this sort. And if you are not this thing, it is possible to conceive of something greater than you -which is impossible. (41)
The group will need to submit a final version of the argument consisting of a thesis/proposition, premises, and a conclusion in response to Anselms ontological proof. The point is not that every member of the group agrees with this argument but that the group presents a good argument to the class. Please mark clearly as The Ontological Argument. Finally post the group work in a new wiki page.
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