Plantinga's version refers to the modern reformulation of the ontological argument for God's existence, proposed by philosopher Alvin Plantinga. This argument is grounded in modal logic, suggesting that if it is possible that a maximally great being exists, then such a being must exist in some possible world, and therefore in all possible worlds, including our own.
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Plantinga's version of the ontological argument asserts that if it's possible that a maximally great being exists, then such a being exists in every possible world.
The argument hinges on the distinction between necessary existence and contingent existence, emphasizing that a maximally great being cannot exist contingently.
Plantinga uses modal axioms to support his claim, specifically relying on S5 modal logic to argue that if a maximally great being exists in any possible world, it exists in all worlds.
Critics of Plantinga's version often challenge the assumption that the existence of a maximally great being is even possible or defend against his modal logic claims.
Plantinga's reformulation has sparked renewed interest and debate in philosophical circles regarding the validity of ontological arguments.
Review Questions
How does Plantinga's version utilize modal logic to argue for the existence of God?
Plantinga's version employs modal logic by suggesting that if it's possible for a maximally great being to exist, then such a being must exist in all possible worlds. This hinges on the distinction between necessary and contingent existence, arguing that a maximally great being cannot merely exist contingently but must exist necessarily. By framing his argument this way, he positions it within a logical framework that highlights the implications of God's possible existence across different realms.
Discuss how critics challenge the assumptions made in Plantinga's version of the ontological argument.
Critics of Plantinga's version often focus on questioning the premise that a maximally great being's existence is even possible. They may argue against the use of modal logic by suggesting it lacks sufficient grounding or may misinterpret what it means for something to be 'great.' Additionally, some contend that simply asserting possible existence doesn't necessitate actual existence, thereby undermining the conclusion Plantinga reaches.
Evaluate the impact of Plantinga's version on contemporary philosophy of religion and its significance in debates about God's existence.
Plantinga's version has significantly impacted contemporary philosophy of religion by revitalizing interest in ontological arguments through its sophisticated use of modal logic. It has fostered rigorous discussions about the nature of existence, possibility, and necessity while challenging both believers and skeptics to engage with foundational philosophical concepts. As scholars analyze its implications, they contribute to a broader discourse on faith and reason, influencing modern theological thought and philosophical inquiry into God's nature and existence.
Related terms
Maximally Great Being: A being that possesses all great-making properties to the highest degree, including omnipotence, omniscience, and moral perfection.
Modal Logic: A type of logic that deals with possibility and necessity, often used to analyze arguments about what could or must exist.
Ontological Argument: A philosophical argument for the existence of God that starts from the concept of God as the greatest conceivable being.