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ontological argument
noun
, Philosophy.
- 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
- the traditional a priori argument for the existence of God on the grounds that the concept itself necessitates existence Compare cosmological argument teleological argument
- any analogous argument from the nature of some concept to the existence of whatever instantiates it
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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.
From Project Gutenberg
Thus the argument from causation throws us back on the so-called ontological argument, whose futility has already been shown.
From Project Gutenberg
Are you not mocking me and deceiving yourself with the old ontological argument?
From Project Gutenberg
Kant has put this point in clear light in his criticism of the ontological argument.
From Project Gutenberg
Stewart had spoken doubtfully of the ontological argument for theology.
From Project Gutenberg
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