The Strengths and Weaknesses of Anselm of Canterbury’s Ontological Proof for the Existence of God, from a Theological and Philosophical Standpoint

Abstract

This article is dedicated to analysis of the socalled Ontological Proof for the exist ence of God as framed by Anselm of Canterbury. Over the course of history, the Proof has been, and continues to be, exposed to criticism in the philosophical and
theological arenas, from atheists as well as theists. In light of the fact that arguments over the Proof continue into our day, it demands the attention of contemporary philosophical and theological thinkers. The present work is an attempt to dissect and analyze the Proof, or Argument, as Anselm framed it, and to identify its strengths and weaknesses from theological and philosophical viewpoints. Atten tion will be paid as well to its significance and application in our day.