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The Existence of God, 2006.
Compares and contrasts Thomas Aquinas' and St. Anselm of Canterbury's arguments for the existence of God.
3,549 words (approx. 14.2 pages), 12 sources, MLA, $ 99.95
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Abstract
This paper examines St. Anselm of Canterbury's and Thomas Aquinas' attempts to prove the existence of God. The paper examines the arguments of both theologians and explains that, while their methods of proving the existence of God are very different, their arguments have endured and influenced Christian thought through the centuries. The paper also looks at the weaknesses in both men's theories and concludes with the assertion that the major weakness of both theories is that they prove the existence of God but not the existence of the God of the Bible and that in order to believe in the Christian God, divine revelation is needed.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Anselm's Arguments
Argument from Goodness
Argument from Existence
Ontological Argument
Aquinas' Arguments
Argument from Motion
Argument from Efficient Cause
St. Aquinas on St. Anselm
Problems with Anselm
Problems with Aquinas
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Anselm (1033 - 1109), would be considered in today's terms a theologian/philosopher. Anselm is most famous for his writings on; "Why God Became Man", his "satisfaction" theory of the atonement, and the "ontological argument." (His satisfaction theory effectively refuted early medieval notions of the devil's "rights" over fallen humankind. The satisfaction theory shaped nearly all Catholic and Protestant thought on redemptive theology, and is still prevalent at the date of this paper. (Evangelical dictionary of theology)). Anselm attempted to prove the existence of God via a much-debated theory known as the "ontological argument", which will be considered in further detail below."
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Existence of God, 2002.
Discusses and critiques various theories from philosophical history dealing with the existence of God.
1,560 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 11 sources, MLA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
Existence of God has always been a contentious philosophical issue and therefore it has been heatedly debated since ancient times. This paper looks at theories and arguments based on causality (trace chain of effect and cause backward and one must reach a fist cause) and on ontological arguments which seek to establish the existence of God based on pure logic. The paper then examines whether these arguments and views are still valid.
From the Paper
"Apart from the ontological view, there is another important view known as the cause/effect argument first given to us by Thomas Aquinas. This view revolves around the idea that if I exists than God does too because I couldn?t have occurred without a possible cause. God was the cause in my case and in the case of everything else that takes place in the world, such as movement of planets, setting and rising of sun and so on. ?I exist so God exists? argument has been upheld by many thinkers and philosophers over the centuries, most prominent being Benedict Spinoza, W. L. Craig and C. D. Broad."
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Existence of God, 2002.
A discussion on one of the most famous and debated arguments for the existence of God presented by an 11th century philosopher, theologian and church leader, Saint Anselm (1033-1109).
1,190 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
The following paper argues that the ?ontological? argument for the existence of God is one of the weakest proofs for the existence of God. This paper describes the argument in some detail, analyzes its pros and cons and arrives at a logical conclusion.
From the Paper
"Immanuel Kant, the famous 18th century philosopher objected to the ontological argument for the existence of God by arguing, ?being is not a real predicate.? In simpler words Kant argued that ?existence? is not an attribute of an object like temperature, shape, size etc.; hence existence cannot be associated with the definition of an object. He has objected to attributing existence to the definition of an object because by doing so, we could prove anything exists by this method. Therefore the existence or non-existence of God cannot have anything to do with the definition of God.While focusing on the weaknesses of the Anselm?s ontological proof we must not totally disregard the counter-arguments of its supporters. It would, therefore, be appropriate to mention that other philosophers have argued that there are senses in which ?existence? is a predicate and Kant?s argument that ?existence is not a predicate? cannot be taken for granted."
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Berkeley?s Immaterialism and the Existence of God: A Case Study, 2001.
This paper discusses the philosopher George Berkeley's concept of immaterialism, his subsequent argument for the existence of God, and the reasons why his argument cannot be accepted as being valid.
1,665 words (approx. 6.7 pages), 8 sources, APA, $ 54.95
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Abstract
An intricate discussion of philosopher George Berkeley's concept of immaterialism and his subsequent argument for the necessary existence of a Supreme Being, or God. The author outlines and analyzes Berkeley's two major philosophical treatises, and the main arguments found in each are clearly defined and presented in a succinct, yet detailed manner. Philosophical ideas/concepts discussed include the ?Likeness Principle? and the variability of sensory experience. The paper then presents Berkeley?s argument for the existence of God, which builds upon the already established theory of immaterialism by discussing the distinction between absolute and relative existence.
From the Paper
"Immaterialism, as defined by Berkeley, is the idea that it is impossible for any sensible qualities whatsoever to exist independent of a mind (Berkeley 1965, 5-6). This argument is brought forth succinctly and clearly in the Dialogues, in which Berkeley presents his case through the character of Philonous, and defends it against criticism by the character of Hylas. Although there are many aspects in both Principles and the Dialogues that contribute to the overall argument for immaterialism, for the purpose of this essay, only two of the strongest points will be discussed- the argument from variability and the likeness principle.
One of the key features of Berkeley?s argument for immaterialism centers on the variability of one?s sensory experiences in comparison to another?s. He notes that each individual perceives the world differently, whether in terms of smell, taste, sight, or touch. One of the ways in which this variability of sensory experiences is presented by Philonous to Hylas is during a discussion between the two concerning taste. Philonous points out that although a certain food may taste pleasant to one person, that same food may taste awful to another. ?How could this be?, Philonous asks Hylas, ?if taste was something really inherent in the food?? (Berkeley 1998, [180]) There is only apparent taste, and this requires dependence on a mind. The same argument is also applied to smell, touch, sight, extension, motion, and solidity, and is reasoned to be just as effective. Perceptual variability occurs with these senses/qualities as well, and none of the apparent smells or colors seem to be any more real than any other ([68-78])."
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Descartes and the Existence of God, 2004.
An analysis of Descartes views on religion and the existence of God.
2,201 words (approx. 8.8 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 68.95
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Abstract
This paper provides an overview of Descartes' theories concerning the existence of God using his "Meditations" as the basis to emphasise his belief in God. It specifically concentrates on "Meditations 2 and 5" and describes Descartes use of the ontological argument, cosmological argument and use of mathematics to prove the existence of God.
From the Paper
"Proceeding in his demonstration of the existence of God by analysing thoughts, Descartes distinguishes several classifications of thought: ideas, 'volitions and affections'1 and judgments. Descartes explores the concept of 'idea'1 further by identifying three types of idea: 'innate ideas'1, 'adventitious'1 ideas which come involuntarily into the mind from outside and 'factitious ideas'1 that are manufactured by one's self by combining innate and adventitious ideas. As Descartes 'has the power of conceiving'1 thought, it is possible his ideas could be of any class. Descartes thoughts are 'inventions of his mind'1, thus he is unable to determine their true origin. Therefore, it is plausible that the thoughts his 'senses have conveyed'1 to his mind could be all innate, adventitious or factitious."
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The Philosophy of the Existence of God, 2004.
This paper explores extensively the ontological, cosmological, and
teleological arguments as to the existence of God.
12,175 words (approx. 48.7 pages), 24 sources, MLA, $ 235.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that all the great philosophers, from the ancients to the moderns, proposed and developed the concept of God. The author points out that the ontological arguments seek to establish the existence of God on the basis of logic. The paper relates that the most common and ancient among all the traditional classical arguments is the teleological argument, which attempts to prove the existence of God within the systematization of universe.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Ontological Arguments
Cosmological Arguments
Teleological Arguments
Conclusion
From the Paper
"There was a shortcoming in the view of Descartes which was sorted out through an attempt of Gottfried Leibniz. Leibniz argues that the arguments of Descartes are not perfect as it has not been shown that the concept of the being which is Supreme and perfect is coherent, or that it is possible for a supremely perfect being to exist. He then argued that perfections cannot be analysed and thus it cannot be shown that perfections are not compatible, and this led him to conclude that all the perfections can exist simultaneously in one entity. The arguments of St. Anselm, Descartes and Leibniz have interesting connections to the recent arguments of Godel, Plantinga and Malcolm. Among these, the most interesting are the arguments of Godel and Plantinga. At the same time, it is difficult to say whether the claims of these authors really lead to any further proofs of the prevalence of God."
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The Existence of God, 2007.
An argument in favor of the scientific and logical proof of the existence of God in this world.
1,549 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper presents a detailed exploration of the existence of God. The writer looks at society's need to believe in a God as well as any proof or evidence of a higher power in existence. It discusses the debate over scientific proof, as well as logical proof for God's existence. The paper concludes by suggesting that God does in fact exist, as is seen by the arguments presented in the paper.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Scientific Proof
A Practical Man's Proof of God
Social Belief
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Whether or not there is an existence of God has dominated school debates in philosophy classes for thousands of years.
Proof of God's existence can be argued with a study and discussion about creation. There are two basic facts when it comes to the existence of mankind. Either there was a beginning of existence or there was not a beginning of existence when it comes to mankind. Atheists believe there is no beginning when it comes to the creation of mankind and therefore society."
"The universe is expanding. This has been scientifically proven in recent years and with that expansion comes a better understanding of the creation process and the fact that there had to be a beginning. It is a fact that the scientific community calls a singularity (http://www.doesgodexist.org/Phamplets/Mansproof.html).
The fact that the sun provides a never ending supply of gas and energy is also an evidence based proof of God's existence. If one were to drive a car without ever putting any more fuel into it the car would eventually run out of gas. However, when one scientifically looks at the sun one realizes that if the sun and the cosmos and the universes have been here forever without a beginning it would have run out of hydrogen gas."
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The Existence of God, 2007.
A look at the arguments for and against the existence of God.
1,101 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
Many philosophers have attempted to prove rationally that God exists. Other philosophers have reacted to this by trying to prove that it is not possible to prove that God exists. This paper critically discusses the evidence for and against the existence of God, referring to the traditional arguments: ontological, cosmological, and teleological.
From the Paper
"Another common argument for the existence of God is the teleological argument - also called the Design Argument. This argument essentially states that it is rational to believe that God exists, based on the evidence of the complex world we see around us. It is surely more logical to deduce from this world that an intelligent being designed it, than to think that it somehow managed to accidentally make itself. "
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Proving the Existence of God, 2000.
An analysis of the philosophical views of Descartes and Aquinas about the existence of God.
1,365 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 3 sources, $ 45.95
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Abstract
A paper discussing the existence of God. The author uses the philosophical views of Descartes and Aquinas to prove that God exists. The author discusses the works of the two philosophers.
From the Paper
"God?s existence can be proved both by reason or philosophy, and by faith or sacred doctrine. Both Aquinas and Descartes agree on the fact that God?s existence can be proved, despite the fact that Aquinas believed that it is more of a question of faith, and Descartes believed that it is more important to use reasoning. Nevertheless, both agree with Aquinas? five ways that one can prove the existence of God. After all of this evidence, it is up to the individual to determine whether or not it is concrete evidence that should be followed. There should be enough evidence for each individual to determine for himself or herself about the existence of God and whether it is relevant in their lives."
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The Existence of God., 2002.
A philosphical discussion on the existence of God.
2,650 words (approx. 10.6 pages), 5 sources, $ 97.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at the existence of God by looking at the beliefs of St. Thomas Aquinas, Immanuel Kant and Rene Descartes on this question.
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St. Anselm?s Argument for the Existence of God, 2006.
A summary of St. Anselm's argument for the existence of God and various refutations of his argument.
1,578 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 8 sources, APA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper begins with a summary and explanation of St. Anselm's ontological argument for the existence of God. The paper then takes a look at rebuttals to his argument presented by such famous thinkers as Rene Descartes, St. Thomas Aquinas and David Hume.
From the Paper
"St. Anselm's ontological argument for the existence of God makes an appeal to pure reasoning, priori, without empirical evidence of any sort. St. Anselm's argument begins with a reference to fool in Psalms 53:1. St. Anselm asserts that even the fool is convinced that something exists in the understanding at least, than which nothing greater can be conceived. He claims that merely by analyzing the concept of God, we can deduce that God exists. St. Anselm's stresses that God is the greatest conceivable being, "a being than which none greater can be conceived." St. Anselm's concept is logical and understandable because it is intelligible, God exists in the understanding. St. Anselm's argument goes onto state that a being that exists merely in the understanding is not as great as a being that exists in reality as well. So a being that exists in the understanding alone is not the greatest conceivable being. "
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The Existence of God, 2004.
An examination of the thoughts of influential thinkers like W. K. Clifford, William James, Blaise Pascal, and William P. Alston regarding the existence of God.
1,583 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at how W. K. Clifford's "The Ethics of Belief", William James's "The Will to Believe", Blaise Pascal's "The Wager" ,and William P. Alston's "A Philosopher's Way Back to the Faith" all give different arguments about the existence of God. It discusses how, while each argument is interesting and constructive, William James?s argument for the individual right to believe or not to believe seems to be the most workable of all of the lines of thought noted here.
From the Paper
"The super-dominance argument is simply a form of a two by two table, with the condition that God exists or does not exist matched with either your belief in God or your failure to believe in God. If you believe in God, and he exists you receive an infinite reward. If you believe in God, and he does not exist, then you receive a finite amount of happiness because of the comfort of religion while you are alive (which Pascal sets at about 250 units). If you do not believe in God, and he exists, you will receive infinite punishment. However, you do not believe in God, and God does not exist, you will receive a finite amount of happiness, limited to 200 units because of choosing angst over the comfort of religion. As such, whether God exists or not, theists are better off than atheists, making a belief in God the most rational belief."
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Proof of the Existence of God, 2008.
An argument suggesting that the existence of God cannot be discounted.
1,265 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
This paper look at why it is erroneous to assume that God does not exist. It discusses the teachings of St. Thomas of Aquinas, the shortcomings of the "Big Bang" theory and the arguments mustered by St. John Damascene. The paper then discusses the questions and concerns raised by J. Scott Turner of the State University of New York in his paper, "Why Can't We Discuss Intelligent Design?" The paper contains an appended original source.
From the Paper
"Put in the simplest terms, proponents of the view that God exists argue that there is an intentionality, a purposefulness, to every design we find in nature. In short, each and every living organism seems perfectly suited to its varying functions, and this set of characteristics suggests that, contrary to the Darwinian assumption that evolution took place haphazardly and by accident, it was instead guided by some kind of purpose that modern science can only guess at. Needless to say, if intelligent design is involved, than an intelligent designer is also involved - and that means the existence of an unseen God with powers beyond the comprehension of human beings."
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Existence Of God, 1975.
This paper asks if the an existence of God can be philosophically proven or disproved? The paper argues from evil, the theological argument and claims of mysticism.
3,600 words (approx. 14.4 pages), 5 sources, $ 127.95
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From the Paper
"The following research concerns the question of what philosophical arguments yield knowledge of God. The principal issue to be discussed is whether the existence of God can be proven or disproven. The arguments to be researched include the "argument from evil," the teleological argument and the claims of mysitcism.
Most objective critics of religious belief stipulate that religion, regardless of its merits, "springs from both evidence and desire." William Kingdom Clifford presents an argument in "The Ethics Of Belief" which does not attack Christianity and religious belief as much as it attacks untested religous belief. Clifford tells us that: "No real belief however trifling and fragmentary it may seem, is ever truly insignificant; it prepares us to receive more of its like, confirms those which resembled it ... "
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Rene Descartes' Theory on the Existence of God, 2007.
A review of Rene Descartes' philosophical work, "Meditations."
1,591 words (approx. 6.4 pages), 0 sources, $ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the 17th-century French philosopher Rene Descartes' work, "Meditations," in which he addresses the question of the existence of God. The writer shows that "Meditations" is a skeptical hypothesis on certain inalienable truths. Descartes strives to prove God's existence and show that God is not a deceiver, and he ultimately concludes with the existence of a non-deceiving God as a perfect and Supreme Being.The writer explains that the only way to support all of Descartes' theories of knowledge was to affirm the existence of an all-loving God; almost everything Descartes claims is dependent on God's existence and his nature as a non-deceiver.
From the Paper
"In the third Meditation, Descartes attempts to prove the existence of God, defined as a being of perfection. God's existence explains causality; as the world exhibits systematic causal sequences, something had to start it all. Descartes' hypothesis begins with the idea of a God who is eternal, infinite, omniscient, omnipotent, and perfect. Descartes believes that these qualities could not have originated from inside him, so God must have given him these ideas. Descartes' argument does not make sense; just because he thinks that God possesses these qualities does not mean that God must possess these qualities. If God causes everything, then what causes God Himself? Is He exempt from this rule? One of the main perfections that Descartes attributes to God is 'self-existence.'"
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