In This Reading We Encounter St

question 4

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.
-According to Rowe, if we grant to Anselm the premise that God is a possible being, the argument begs the question.

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Definitions:

Histrionic

Relating to a personality disorder characterized by a pattern of excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behaviors.

Borderline

Often used in the context of Borderline Personality Disorder, it describes a mental health condition characterized by unstable moods, behavior, and relationships.

Obsessive-Compulsive

Relating to a mental disorder characterized by recurring, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and/or repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions).

Narcissistic Personality Disorder

A mental condition characterized by a long-term pattern of exaggerated self-importance, need for excessive attention, and lack of empathy for others.