Anselmian argument
Anselmian argument
Anselm (1033-1109) reasoned thusI have an idea of a Being than which nothing greater can be conceived; this idea is that of the most perfect, complete, infinite Being, the greatest conceivable; now an idea which exists in reality (in re) is greater than one which exists only in conception (in intellectu); hence, if my idea is the greatest it must exist in reality. Accordingly, God, the Perfect Idea, Being, exists. (Anselm’s argument rests upon the basis of the realistic metaphysics of Plato.) — V.F.