Descartes' Ontological Argument

Definition

Descartes' ontological argument is a philosophical reasoning that attempts to prove the existence of God through the very concept of God itself. According to Descartes, the idea of a supremely perfect being must exist because existence is a necessary attribute of perfection. This argument connects deeply with ontology as it explores the nature of being and existence, particularly in relation to a supreme being and how we understand concepts of perfection and reality.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Descartes' argument is primarily found in his work 'Meditations on First Philosophy', specifically in the Fifth Meditation.
2. The argument hinges on the notion that if we can conceive of a perfect being, that being must exist in reality since existence is part of its perfection.
3. Critics of Descartes' ontological argument argue that existence cannot simply be treated as a predicate or property of a being.
4. Descartes distinguishes between necessary existence (which applies to God) and contingent existence (which applies to all other beings).
5. The ontological argument has influenced many later philosophers, both in support and critique, shaping discussions around God's existence and the nature of reality.

Review Questions

• How does Descartes' ontological argument define the relationship between existence and perfection?
  • Descartes' ontological argument posits that existence is a necessary attribute of a supremely perfect being. Since God is defined as the most perfect being imaginable, lacking any imperfections, it follows logically that He must exist; otherwise, He would not be perfect. Therefore, for Descartes, understanding God as a perfect being inherently leads to the conclusion that His existence must also be real.
• What are some key criticisms of Descartes' ontological argument and how do they challenge its validity?
  • Critics argue that Descartes' ontological argument mistakenly treats existence as a property or predicate that can be applied to beings. Philosophers like Immanuel Kant have contended that existence is not a quality that can enhance the concept of a being; thus, just because we can conceive of a perfect being doesn't mean it exists in reality. This challenges the argument's validity by suggesting that logical reasoning alone cannot establish the actual existence of God.
• Evaluate the impact of Descartes' ontological argument on contemporary philosophical discussions about God’s existence.
  • Descartes' ontological argument has significantly influenced contemporary philosophy by sparking ongoing debates about the nature of God and existence itself. Its introduction led to various interpretations and counterarguments from philosophers like Anselm to Kant, shaping modern epistemology and metaphysics. The argument continues to be a focal point for discussing whether rational thought can establish metaphysical truths, influencing both theological discourse and secular philosophy regarding ultimate realities.

Related terms

Ontology:

The branch of philosophy that studies the nature of being, existence, and reality.

Perfection: A state or quality of being perfect, often considered in philosophical discussions as an attribute of a divine being.

Metaphysics:

A branch of philosophy that deals with the fundamental nature of reality, including concepts like being, existence, and the universe.