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ontological argument

noun

, Philosophy.
  1. an a priori argument for the existence of God, asserting that as existence is a perfection, and as God is conceived of as the most perfect being, it follows that God must exist; originated by Anselm, later used by Duns Scotus, Descartes, and Leibniz.


ontological argument

noun

  1. the traditional a priori argument for the existence of God on the grounds that the concept itself necessitates existence Compare cosmological argument teleological argument
  2. any analogous argument from the nature of some concept to the existence of whatever instantiates it
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


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Word History and Origins

Origin of ontological argument1

First recorded in 1875–80
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Example Sentences

If the famous ontological argument for the being of God has been refuted, we shall not, on that account, tremble for the ark.

Thus the argument from causation throws us back on the so-called ontological argument, whose futility has already been shown.

Are you not mocking me and deceiving yourself with the old ontological argument?

Kant has put this point in clear light in his criticism of the ontological argument.

Stewart had spoken doubtfully of the ontological argument for theology.

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