Aquinas & the Cosmological Arguments: Crash Course Philosophy #10
Crash Course Philosophy: The Ontological Argument
Introduction to Anselm's Argument
- Crash Course Philosophy introduces the ontological argument for God's existence, proposed by Anselm of Canterbury in the 11th century.
- Anselm's argument sparked significant discussion among medieval Christian philosophers, notably influencing Thomas Aquinas nearly 200 years later.
Thomas Aquinas' Response
- Although Aquinas believed in God, he sought evidence for his beliefs and was skeptical of Anselm’s argument.
- To counter Anselm, Aquinas developed five arguments to prove God's existence, focusing on cosmological arguments that relate to observable facts about the universe.
The Cosmological Arguments
Argument from Motion
- Aquinas’ first cosmological argument is based on motion; he observed that all moving objects must have been set into motion by something else.
- He argued against infinite regress, positing that there must be a first mover that initiated all motion—this being is identified as God.
Argument from Causation
- The second argument addresses causation: everything caused must have a cause itself; thus, there cannot be an infinite regress of causes.
- This leads to the conclusion that there must be a first causer which is uncaused—again identified as God.
Argument from Contingency
- The third argument distinguishes between necessary beings (which cannot not exist) and contingent beings (which could potentially not exist).
- Aquinas asserted that at least one necessary being must exist to prevent an infinite regress of contingency; this necessary being is also identified as God.
Aquinas' Argument from Contingency and Its Implications
Understanding the Argument from Contingency
- Aquinas argues that contingent things exist, which can cause other contingent things. However, if only contingent things existed, it would lead to an infinite regress of contingency, implying a possibility that nothing might have existed.
- An infinite regress is deemed impossible; thus, there must be at least one necessary being, identified as God.
The Argument from Degrees
- Aquinas introduces the Argument from Degrees, stating that properties come in degrees (e.g., good/bad). To understand these degrees, there must be a perfect standard against which everything else is measured.
- This perfect standard is again identified as God, who represents the pinnacle of perfection.
Critical Evaluation of Aquinas' Arguments
Philosophical Reception
- Many philosophers—both theists and atheists—find flaws in Aquinas’ arguments. They argue that these do not establish the existence of any specific god.
- Critics point out that Aquinas’ conclusions leave us with abstract concepts like unmoved movers rather than a personal God who engages with creation.
Limitations on Polytheism and Sentience
- Aquinas' arguments do not rule out polytheism; they fail to prove whether God is singular or part of a committee-like structure.
- There’s no evidence in his arguments for a sentient God; this opens up possibilities for various interpretations of divinity.
Objections to Aquinas' Conclusions
Infinite Regress Objection
- One significant objection is Aquinas’ assertion against infinite regress. If infinite regress were possible, then his first two arguments would collapse.
Self-defeating Nature of Arguments
- A major critique suggests that if everything requires a cause or motion instigator (including God), then why can't other entities also exist without such stipulations?
Engaging with Philosophy
Accepting Conclusions vs. Arguments
- It’s important to differentiate between accepting a conclusion (like God's existence) while rejecting the argument used to support it.
The Dialectic Nature of Philosophy
- Engaging with philosophical arguments means participating in ongoing dialogues. You can either refine existing arguments or present counterarguments based on your reasoning.
Next Steps in Philosophy
Upcoming Topics
- The next discussion will focus on Aquinas’ fifth argument: the teleological argument.