Question of the Week #930: Great-Making Properties and the Ontological Argument
Mar 13, 2025
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A thought-provoking exploration unfolds as a young individual from Syria tackles the ontological argument, highlighting the subjective nature of concepts like greatness and perfection. The discussion dives into the complexities of value in metaphysical debates, reflecting on various philosophical perspectives and recent developments. The conversation also emphasizes 'great-making properties,' scrutinizing their importance in contemplating the existence of an omnipotent and morally perfect being across different realms. Prepare for deep philosophical insights!
The ontological argument asserts that certain divine attributes represent objective great-making properties, challenging subjective interpretations of greatness.
Current philosophical perspectives, particularly those of Alvin Plantinga, emphasize the metaphysical possibility of a perfect being over subjective definitions of greatness.
Deep dives
The Nature of Greatness in the Ontological Argument
The ontological argument hinges on the definition of God as the greatest conceivable being, prompting a discussion about what constitutes 'greatness.' Critics argue that terms like 'great' or 'perfect' are subjective, suggesting that values could vary based on differing human perspectives or hypothetical evolutionary paths. Despite this skepticism, certain divine attributes, such as moral perfection and omnipotence, are presented as clear examples of great-making properties, implying an inherent objectivity in these traits. This indicates that while interpretations of greatness may differ, some qualities are widely accepted as superior, reaffirming the argument's foundation.
Addressing Skepticism and Its Implications
The objections raised by skeptics regarding the ontological argument are deemed implausible and somewhat irrelevant, especially in the context of contemporary formulations by philosophers like Alvin Plantinga. Rather than focusing on the attributes that define greatness, the argument centers on the metaphysical possibility of an omnipotent, omniscient, and morally perfect being existing in all possible worlds. This perspective shifts the conversation away from subjective interpretations of greatness, framing the debate around existential possibilities instead. Additionally, the persistence of skeptics in disputing the existence of great-making properties may reveal a deeper reluctance to acknowledge the implications of the ontological argument.