In This Reading We Encounter St

question 2

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.
-According to Anselm, anything that can be conceived not to exist

• A) exists in reality.
• B) is God.
• C) is not God.
• D) is perfect.

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Definitions:

Affiliation Motive

The innate desire to form and maintain social bonds and interpersonal connections.

Implicit Motivation

Refers to motivation that is unconscious, driving behavior without the individual being consciously aware of the motivating factors.

Approach Motivation

The drive to move towards, seek out, or achieve positive outcomes.

Avoidance Motivation

A behavioral response aimed at avoiding negative outcomes or stimuli, where actions are taken to prevent or minimize unpleasant or harmful consequences.