Anselm's Proslogion 2 vs 3
Two versions of Anselm's ontological argument: Proslogion 2 argues that that-than-which-nothing-greater-can-be-conceived must exist in reality (not merely the mind); Proslogion 3 argues that God is a being greater than conceivable, whose non-existence is inconceivable, establishing necessary existence.
Real World
Contemporary philosopher Alvin Plantinga revived Proslogion 3's modal logic in his 1974 book 'The Nature of Necessity,' arguing that if God's existence is even possible in one conceivable world, then God must exist in all worlds — including ours.
Exam Focus
Treat Proslogion 2 and 3 as separate arguments — examiners reward students who analyse each version's distinct logical move.
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