Chapter 3 Practice Quiz Flashcards
Who invented the ontological argument for the existence of God?
St. Anselm
Describe the ontological argument for the existence of God.
The ontological argument, formulated by St. Anselm, is a philosophical argument that attempts to prove the existence of God based on the concept of God as the greatest conceivable being. It argues that if we can conceive of a being that is greater than all other beings, then that being must exist in reality, because existence is a necessary attribute of a being that is greater than all others. In other words, the very concept of God implies existence, and therefore God must exist.
Describe the reconciliation of the use of reason and Christian faith as represented in the beliefs of St. Anselm.
St. Anselm believed that reason and faith are not in conflict, but rather complement each other. He argued that reason can lead us to a certain level of understanding about God and the world, but faith is necessary to fully comprehend the mysteries of God. According to St. Anselm, reason can provide evidence for the existence of God and the basic principles of Christian doctrine, but faith is required to fully grasp the deeper truths and mysteries of the Christian faith. He famously stated, ‘I believe in order to understand.’
Describe the reconciliation of the use of reason and Christian faith as represented in the beliefs of Peter Lombard.
Peter Lombard, a medieval theologian, also believed in the compatibility of reason and faith. He argued that reason can help us understand and interpret the teachings of the Christian faith, but faith is ultimately necessary for salvation. Lombard emphasized the importance of both reason and faith in theological inquiry, stating that reason can provide logical explanations and arguments, while faith provides the divine revelation necessary for salvation. He believed that reason and faith should work together harmoniously in the pursuit of theological knowledge.
What is the ontological argument for the existence of God?
The ontological argument is a philosophical attempt to demonstrate the existence of God based on the concept of a perfect being.
Who formulated the ontological argument?
St. Anselm
How can St. Anselm’s argument be summarized?
God is defined as ‘that than which nothing greater can be conceived.’ It is greater to exist both in the mind and in reality than to exist only in the mind. If God only exists in the mind, then a greater being can be conceived—one that exists in reality. Therefore, God must exist not only in the mind but also in reality, because the concept of God implies existence.
What does St. Anselm’s ontological argument imply about the existence of God?
St. Anselm’s ontological argument highlights the idea that the concept of God as the greatest possible being implies that God must necessarily exist in reality to be considered the greatest.
What is Scholasticism?
Scholasticism refers to the medieval movement that sought to synthesize Christian theology with the philosophical works of figures like Aristotle. It represents a period of intellectual activity characterized by the application of reason to faith and the reconciliation of faith with reason.
Who was Peter Abelard?
Peter Abelard was a significant figure of the Scholastic period who contributed to the development of the movement through his use of the dialectical method.
What was Peter Abelard’s approach in his work ‘Sic et Non’?
Peter Abelard’s ‘Sic et Non’ presented theological questions and the conflicting answers provided by different authorities. His aim was to resolve inconsistencies within Christian doctrine through logical analysis.
What was Abelard’s philosophy rooted in?
Conceptualism
Who did Abelard engage in a notable debate with?
William of Champeaux
What did Abelard argue for in the debate?
Separation of logic and physics
What did Abelard advocate for in the debate?
A middle ground between realism and nominalism
