Author Question: What is the main idea of Aquinas' cosmological argument for the existence of God from contingency? ... (Read 25 times)

genevieve1028

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 601
What is the main idea of Aquinas' cosmological argument for the existence of God from contingency?
 
  Need something for my thesis for this one Thanks in advance...

Question 2

Explain Anselm's ontological argument for the existence of God.
 
  Any contributors on this topic please? Thank you.



heinisk01

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 329
Answer to Question 1

- Argument from contingency: When we examine the universe, we see that everything that exists and occurs is dependent on something else. However, for the universe to exist as it does, there must be some ultimate reality that is necessary, not contingent. This ultimate reality is God.
- Aquinas said that everything in the universe appears to be contingent, a possibility. But possible means it is not necessary that it exist. It might just as easily have not existed, and in fact, at one point it didn't exist. But if everything in the universe is only possible, and not necessary, then at some point everything in the universe would not have existed. Because the universe does exist, it's rational to assume that there is a Being that is necessary (not merely contingent) that does not depend on anything else for its existence. That Being is God.

Answer to Question 2

- Assumes that in general existence is contingent not necessary because we can conceive of them not existing
- God is the ultimate reality and therefore necessary; therefore, God must exist



Related Topics

Need homework help now?

Ask unlimited questions for free

Ask a Question
 

Did you know?

It is important to read food labels and choose foods with low cholesterol and saturated trans fat. You should limit saturated fat to no higher than 6% of daily calories.

Did you know?

After 5 years of being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, one every three patients will no longer be able to work.

Did you know?

One way to reduce acid reflux is to lose two or three pounds. Most people lose weight in the belly area first when they increase exercise, meaning that heartburn can be reduced quickly by this method.

Did you know?

Anesthesia awareness is a potentially disturbing adverse effect wherein patients who have been paralyzed with muscle relaxants may awaken. They may be aware of their surroundings but unable to communicate or move. Neurologic monitoring equipment that helps to more closely check the patient's anesthesia stages is now available to avoid the occurrence of anesthesia awareness.

Did you know?

In most cases, kidneys can recover from almost complete loss of function, such as in acute kidney (renal) failure.

For a complete list of videos, visit our video library