Philosophy - Arguments for god based on reason

Question 1

Anselm’s ontological argument is not persuasive. Discuss

Answer 1

1. His a priori reasoning fails
2. Gaunilo is right to critique it
3. Kant and Russel are right to critique it

Question 2

To what extent does Gaunilo successfully criticise the ontological argument?

Answer 2

1. Too harsh to reject a priori reasoning
2. Anselm provides a response to Gaunilo
3. Kant and Russell offer more successful criticisms

Question 3

To what extent does Kant successfully criticise the ontological argument?

Answer 3

1. Wrong to reject a priori reasoning
2. Doesn’t fully address Anselm or Descartes argument
3. Gaunilo offers more successful criticisms

Question 4

A priori arguments are more persuasive than a posteriori arguments. Discuss

Answer 4

1. ‘God exists’ cannot be know a priori
2. A posteriori tells us more about God’s nature
3. Both fail as logical leap to GOCT is required