The challenges posed by Platonism to divine aseity can be addressed through modified Platonism or divine conceptualism, each with their own theological objections and concerns.
There is a need to critically examine the arguments for realism about abstract objects and consider anti-realist positions as potential alternatives for theists.
Deep dives
Modified Platonism and its Problems
One response to the challenge posed by Platonism to divine aseity is to advocate a modified Platonism, where abstract objects are created by God. However, this view faces theological objections due to the eternality and necessity of abstract objects, which contradict the traditional doctrine of creation. Expanding the scope of creation to include eternal dependence would subvert God's freedom. Additionally, the bootstrapping objection arises, as the creation of properties would require God to already possess those properties, leading to circularity.
Divine Conceptualism as an Alternative
Divine conceptualism offers an alternative solution to the challenge of abstract objects. It suggests that abstract objects, such as mathematical entities and propositions, are concrete objects, specifically thoughts in God's mind. This view, endorsed by some theologians, avoids the bootstrapping objection and preserves divine aseity. However, it raises concerns about the constant presence of trivial thoughts, potential problems with aspectual shape, and the nature of divine thoughts as compared to propositions.
The Need for Anti-Realist Alternatives
Realism about abstract objects is often assumed by both absolute creationists and divine conceptualists. However, it is essential to critically examine the arguments for realism and consider alternative anti-realist positions. Anti-realist approaches offer the possibility of avoiding the challenges posed by abstract objects altogether, questioning the need for ontological commitment to universals, properties, and sets. These alternatives, though requiring further exploration, provide avenues worth investigating for theists grappling with the issue of abstract objects.
Challenges and Concerns for Conceptualism
While divine conceptualism provides a potential solution, it is not without challenges. Concerns arise regarding the constant presence of trivial and inappropriate thoughts in God's mind. The idea that divine thoughts are identical to propositions raises questions about the aspectual shape and distinguishes propositional content from the thoughts expressing them. Furthermore, the substitution of God's thoughts for properties faces difficulties in accounting for exemplification and the possibility of purely private propositions. These challenges make the conceptualist view less attractive compared to anti-realist alternatives.
