In This Reading We Encounter St

question 8

Multiple Choice

In this reading we encounter St. Anselm's ontological argument for the existence of God and Gaunilo's reply. The argument goes like this: God is by definition "a being than which nothing greater can be conceived." If God, the greatest being that can be conceived, exists only in our minds, then there must be a being greater than God-that is, a God that exists in reality (an existing being is greater than an imaginary one) . But this leads to a contradiction: A being greater than God is impossible. Therefore, God must exist in reality (as well as in the mind) . Gaunilo replies that if Anselm's reasoning were sound, we could prove something ridiculous-namely, that the greatest island possible exists in reality.
-Anselm's argument is based on

• A) conceptual analysis.
• B) empirical evidence.
• C) science.
• D) inductive generalization.

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Definitions:

Self-efficacy

The belief in one's capabilities to organize and execute the courses of action required to manage prospective situations.

Low Standards

Refers to minimal or inferior criteria or expectations in various contexts, including personal, professional, or quality expectations.

Defensive Pessimism

A strategy where an individual lowers their expectations to help prepare for the worst-case scenario.

Counterproductive

Activities or behaviors that hinder or go against the achievement of one's goals or objectives.