In Meditation V, Descartes proffers an ontological argument for God’s existence. Assess that argument and determine if you find it convincing. Then discuss if this argument is enough for him to claim in the last paragraph of Meditation VI, “For from the fact that God is not a deceiver it follows that in cases like these I am completely free from error.” Also, discuss just what “cases” he means.

 

 

Sample Solution

Descartes’ ontological argument for God’s existence is that since God is a perfect being and an idea of perfection exists within the mind, then God must also exist outside of the mind. He believes that if something is greater or more perfect than anything else it could not have come from nothing, so since his idea of a perfect being has no defects this being must exist in reality. This argument relies heavily on the concept of causality; because there can be no effect without a cause, he claims that any idea which has been created must be caused by some external source – in this case the perfect being known as God.

Sample Solution

Descartes’ ontological argument for God’s existence is that since God is a perfect being and an idea of perfection exists within the mind, then God must also exist outside of the mind. He believes that if something is greater or more perfect than anything else it could not have come from nothing, so since his idea of a perfect being has no defects this being must exist in reality. This argument relies heavily on the concept of causality; because there can be no effect without a cause, he claims that any idea which has been created must be caused by some external source – in this case the perfect being known as God.

I find Descartes’ argument to be convincing because it provides logical reasoning for why such a perfect entity would need to exist in order for us to even comprehend its concept through our own ideas and experiences. However I do not think this argument alone should lead him to conclude that he is free from error, nor does it explain exactly what “cases” he means when making this statement. To understand these \”cases\” we need look further into his writings where Descartes claims his belief in knowledge gained through divine revelation (meditation IV); thus asserting firmly enough evidence exists back up claim now made later part book itself.

In essence then “cases” refers different situations encountered throughout life which may appear troubling or uncertain but having faith trust God will keep us safe ultimately leads towards path enlightenment instead fear uncertainty due understanding everything comes down source wisdom knowledge found only Him who knows all things with complete clarity certainty despite whatever situation happens arise eventually. Thus overall while ontological argument presented still holds significant weight value matter context too plays important role determining whether individual truly protected against potential errors during search truth or not thanks power His grace mercy combined one’s unwavering faith Him

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