In This Reading We Encounter St

question 11

True/False

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 says that his reasoning does not apply to things like islands but only to God, the greatest being possible.

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Definitions:

Well-structured Problems

Problems that have clear goals, fully specified constraints, and a known solution path, making them easier to resolve.

Existing State

The current condition or situation of a system, organization, or any defined set of circumstances.

Desired State

A concept referring to the ideal conditions or objectives an individual, group, or organization aims to achieve.

Phoenix Payroll System

A specific payroll processing software used by the Canadian government, noted for its significant implementation problems.