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Is the ontological argument still relevant in modern philosophy of religion?

Angella O'Scanlon

Hey friend,

To answer your question "Is the ontological argument still relevant in modern philosophy of religion?" I would say that it depends on who you ask. The ontological argument is a philosophical argument for the existence of God that has been debated for centuries. The argument is based on the idea that the concept of God is so perfect that it must exist in reality. However, the argument has been heavily criticized for its circular reasoning and reliance on the definition of God.

Some philosophers, like Alvin Plantinga, believe that the ontological argument is still relevant in modern philosophy of religion. Plantinga argues that the ontological argument can be formulated in a way that avoids the circular reasoning and critiques of the past. He suggests that the argument can be made by using modal logic, which is a type of logic that deals with necessity and possibility. According to Plantinga, if it is possible for God to exist, then it follows that God must exist in some possible world. Therefore, the concept of God must exist in reality.

Other philosophers, like Graham Oppy, argue that the ontological argument is not relevant in modern philosophy of religion. Oppy critiques Plantinga's modal version of the argument by pointing out that it relies on subjective notions of possibility and necessity. Additionally, Oppy argues that the argument involves logical tricks and wordplay rather than substantive philosophical reasoning.

Overall, the debate surrounding the ontological argument continues today in modern philosophy of religion. While some philosophers believe that the argument is still relevant, others do not. It seems that the relevance of the ontological argument will continue to be a topic of discussion and debate for many years to come.

I hope this sheds some light on your question.

Best regards,

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