Explain the ontological argument

Our concept of God is that of a being greater than which none can be imagined. Since we are able to imagine God at all, then we can see the God exists as an idea in the mind. However, it seems that a thing which exists in the mind and in reality is necessarily better than a thing which only exists in the mind. Since this is the case, if God were to only exist as an idea in the mind, then we would be able to imagine a greater being. However, we are unable to imagine a greater being, and therefore God must exist.

HC
Answered by Heather C. Philosophy tutor

2185 Views

See similar Philosophy A Level tutors

Related Philosophy A Level answers

All answers ▸

Does Utilitarianism succeed as an approach to Ethics?


What is Descartes' "cogito" argument?


Describe Wittgenstein's approach to reality in his Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus.


Is rule utilitarianism a better form of ethical decision making than act utilitarianism?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning