OCC Ontological Argument Discussion

After completing the assigned readings from St. Anslem and St. Thomas Aquinas, select one of the following three options to complete:

Option 1: The Ontological Argument

Summarize and evaluate St. Anselm’s ontological argument. Begin by stating the argument in standard form. As you evaluate the argument, be sure to integrate either Gaunilo or Kant’s criticism of the argument into your essay. Do you find the argument persuasive or not? What conclusion(s) do you draw about the strategy that St. Anselm employs to try to establish the existence of God?

Option 2: St. Thomas Aquinas’ Five Ways

Summarize and evaluate one of St. Thomas’ Aquinas’ first four arguments for the existence for God (We will address the fifth way in the following week). In your summary, be sure to clearly label the premises and conclusion of the argument. When evaluating the argument, be sure to consider at least one objection to the argument. Do you find the argument persuasive? Why or why not?

Option 3: Open Reading Question.

Develop your own reading question by following the instructions found in the Course Information folder.

Responses to classmates:

Develop a critical, sustained response to at least two of your classmates’ postings.