Rational theology

Rational theology

An evaluation of Anselm’s cognitive existence argument based on the proof of God’s existence with an emphasis on Kant’s criticisms of it

Document Type : Original Article

Abstract
The ontological argument is an a priori argument that does not rely 
on experience of the external world but uses "pure reason" to prove 
the existence of God. In other words, ontological arguments employ 
analysis, a priori premises, and necessary principles to demonstrate 
that God exists. The most famous ontological argument was 
proposed by Anselm, an Italian theologian of the 11th century. Is 
Anselm's argument considered valid and successful? Are the 
criticisms against it, particularly those by Kant, defensible? Is the 
attempt to prove God's existence through the ontological argument 
complex and futile? This paper, conducted through a criticalanalytical method, aims to present Anselm's ontological argument 
and examine the criticisms against it, especially Kant's critiques. The 
article will show that while some contemporary criticisms of Anselm 
and Kant's objections to the argument lack sufficient solidity and can 
be addressed, some of Kant's critiques remain serious and 
challenging for Anselm's argument. The responses provided to the 
raised criticisms cannot be considered a successful defense. 
Therefore, the traditional formulation of the ontological argument 
cannot be regarded as a convincing argument for theism.
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