Argument For The Existence Of God

Argument For The Existence Of God Spinozas Ethics is organised into a deductive format that reveals the necessary connections between the propositions. The geometrical method contributes to a necessary and indubitable outcome that God necessarily exists and this will be an absolute truth. The Ethics geometrical method is based after Euclids work where the demonstration of every proposition uses definitions, axioms and only propositions that have been already established. I will be focusing on whether the definitions are real or nominal as this is the main source of controversy on what the geometrical method contributes to the existence of God. I will be arguing that the definitions are real and constructive therefore the geometrical method contributes to a logical argument for the existence of God. Proposition 11 is the first proposition where God is mentioned and this proposition contains three demonstrations for Gods existence. The first demonstration is the ontological argument which tries to deduce the existence of God from concepts. It states that it is impossible to conceive of God not existing. This is because God is defined as a substance consisting of an infinity of attributes (ID6) and it has already been proven that it pertains to the nature of a substance to exist (IP7). Therefore because of the geometrical method all Spinoza has to do is substitute God for substance to show that God necessarily exists. To say that God does not exist is to say that it is not in Gods essence to exist but this is absurd as we have seen the nature of a substance is to exist and God is a substance. Spinoza has already demonstrated that if things have nothing in common with one and other, one of them cannot be the cause of the other (IP3), in nature there cannot be two of the same substances of the same nature or attribute (IP5) and two substances with different attributes have nothing in common (IP2). Thus it logically follows that one substance cannot be produced by another substance (IP6). As a substance is prior to its affections, this means that they cannot produce a substance. Therefore it pertains to the nature of a substance to exist (IP7). By definition God is a substance which means it pertains to the nature of God to exist so God necessarily exists. As it is evident from this example, the geometrical method allows Spinoza to state Gods existence as an unquestionable matter of fact without room for reasonable disagreement with his logical conclusion. It contributes the ability to show persuasively how one proposition follows from another, leading to clear and distinct necessary truths which are not contingent but are absolute and objective. It shows a rigid mathematical necessity which doesnt rely on our experiences and eliminates human ignorance. Moreover nothing relies on unproven claims or assumptions that might make the argument for the existence of God incorrect. The geometrical method for the existence of God is undeniable only if we agree with the definitions and axioms. If we do then we will find it difficult (but not impossible) to not agree with Spinozas conclusion. I will focus on Spinozas definitions as they are the bedrock of his method. Whether the geometrical method contributes to a logical argument for the existence of God depends on whether Spinozas definitions are nominal or real. Nominal definitions are what is meant by a word or thought in a concept thus they can be nothing about reality. They are merely stipulative, have no truth value and can be arbitrary. Whereas real definitions explain a thing as it is outside of the understanding , they are actually defining something. They have truth values as they are accurate representations of a thing. If the definitions are nominal then the geometrical method for Gods existence is weak as the ontological argument relies on the definition of God yet this definition will not be saying anything about God in reality. But I believe that Spinozas definitions are real definition and define something that actually is. Therefore the geometrical method contributes to a logical argument for the existence of God. One claim by R. J. Delahunty is that the definitions must be nominal not real if they are to be intelligible. Delahunty argues that the definitions have to be nominal because of the form of the definitions, for example By I understand Another claim is mentioned in Spinozas letter to Simon De Vries, which states that the truth of the conclusion that one deduces from the definitions is not changed by the definitions being arbitrary or even false. This could mean that Spinoza is trying to deduce Gods existence from some basic but not certain truths. I will argue against these points as I believe we should not look at the geometrical method of the Ethics in this way as it does contribute to Gods existence. To refute the first claim about the definitions being nominal because of their phrasing I will turn to P. Basile who disputes Delahuntys argument. He believes that Spinoza has done this so that we think understand the definitions in the same way as he does. Basile refers to Spinozas second letter to Oldenburg where Spinoza explains that is possible to use real definitions and still phrase them in the way he does: The definition of God is true appears from the fact, that by God we mean a Being supremely perfect and absolutely infinite. Thus the definition of God as having infinite attributes is not in oppositions to our definition of God. Basile concludes that the second letter suggests Spinozas definitions would be an analysis of the ordinary conception of God as an infinite being. Therefore Spinozas definitions are real and give a clarified version of our idea of God, contributing to a strong argument for the existence of God. To refute the second claim I will refer to Steven Nadler. He believes that this is not the correct interpretation of the Ethics as Spinoza is demonstrating truth; the Ethics is about reality. The definitions are not nominal as the arguments are not that if you assume for the sake of the argument what the definitions mean then God necessarily exists. Rather he is saying that this is how the definitions should be understood, if defined truly therefore God necessarily exists. Spinoza in Treatise on the Emendation of the Intellect states that mathematicians know the real definition of a figure when they are able to construct a figure; this is a constructive definition. Spinoza describes the notion of a sphere to a student by saying that a semicircle is rotated around a centre. While a sphere has not actually been constructed in this way, imagining it has can help us understand the mathematical definition of a sphere. If this is applied to the definition of God then it could be seen as constructive because it demonstrates which concepts we need to construct together to achieve a correct metaphysical notion of the Diety, one that is wholly purged of misleading association inherited from tradition, prejudices, or false metaphysics. This idea would account for phrases such as byI understand This would also be compatible with the idea that to understand God is to have clear concepts of a real thing. Thus a constructive definition leads us to understand what som ething is. Just as the semicircle helps us to understand the sphere, the definition helps us to understand God. As the geometrical method uses these constructive definitions, through proposition 11 and the definitions of substance and God, the reader is helped to understand that God necessarily exists. Moreover, Spinoza shows the difference between a nominal definition of a circle a figure in which the lines drawn from the centre to the circumference are equal and constructive as the figure that is described by any line of which one end is fixed and the other movable. The constructive definition not the nominal definition shows us how a circle can be constructed and because of this we can derive at its essential properties. Spinoza believes that this can be applied to reality and that we can have a real idea about something through its causes: Knowledge of the effect is nothing but acquiring a more perfect knowledge of its causes. Henry Allison states that either we find ourselves involved in an infinite regress, which would lead to hopeless scepticism, or the chain of reasoning must be grounded in a single principle. This principle is the causa-sui as everything must be explained by it and its essence must involve existence. Therefore the geometrical method contributes to the definition of God and this definition includes God necessarily existence. In conclusion, I believe that Nadler and Basile arguments for the definition of the Ethics to be real and constructive are correct. As they are real definition, the ontological argument in proposition 11 is based in reality therefore contributes to a logical argument for the existence of God. As the definitions are constructive, the geometrical method contributes to constructing the right concepts together to have a clear concept of a God who exists. Moreover, because the definitions are constructive the geometrical method contributes to us deriving at Gods essential properties of God, one of these being existence.

Boarding a Horse: Pasture vs. Stable Essay -- Comparison Compare Contr

Boarding a Horse: Pasture vs. Stable For centuries horse and man have existed in a partnership which has provided mutual benefits. The horse has aided man's advancement toward civilization as a diligent worker, reliable transportation method, brave soldier, and trusted friend. In return, man has protected the horse from predators and disease, and provided food and shelter to ensure the continued health and well being of his equine companion. As well meaning as man's intentions may be, not all of the trappings of modern equine husbandry are beneficial to this proud animal. Originally a wild and free denizen of the plains, the horse can suffer psychological and medical disorders if its life is spent locked away in the confinement of a typical 12' x 12' barn stall. One of the most important medical conditions that can afflict a stabled horse is laminitis. Also known as founder, laminitis is the "inflammation of a lamina, especially in the hoof of a horse" (Webster's 671). The laminae are finger-like grooves where sensitive living tissue connects the dead hoof in a horse's foot (Encyclopedia 171) to the coffin bone (Rooney 114). An enzyme normally produced by the body in small amounts allows slow and even movement of the laminae to allow for growth. With laminitis, however, the enzyme is over-produced and causes large sections of the laminae to weaken and separate. Pressures from body weight and tendon strength allow the coffin bone, the single terminating digit (Encyclopedia 170), to rotate within the hoof pocket (Rooney 131). This rotation causes severe tissue trauma which results in painful lameness. In extreme cases the coffin bone protrudes through the sole of the hoof. It is understandable that the best treatment in the ... ...ves than those of their counterparts in the stable. Works Cited Denning, Dr. Charles H., Jr. First Aid for Horses: What to do until the veterinarian arrives. No. Hollywood, CA: Wilshire Book Company, 1969. Encyclopedia of The Horse. New York: Crescent Books, 1989. Hayes, Capt. M. Horace. Veterinary Notes For Horse Owners. New York: Simon & Schuster, 1987. The International Encyclopedia of Horses & Ponies. New York: Howell Book House, MacMillan Publishing, USA, 1995. Oglesby, Robert N., DVM. "Founder & Laminitis." Founder and Laminitis in Horses. April 1999. The Horseman's Advisor. 28 Jan. 2002 Rooney, James A. The Lame Horse: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment. South Brunswick and New York: A. S. Barnes and Company, 1974. Webster's Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary. Springfield, MA: Merriam-Webster Inc., 1987.

Analyse How the Film ‘The Matrix’ presents two Different Versions of Reality

We are presented with two different versions of reality. In one we get the feeling of everything being enclosed and lifeless, this is the Matrix which is a computer program designed as a trap for human minds. In it people have no individuality; they are all just part of the system. The other reality is a harsh post apocalyptic one where computers have enslaved humanity and the sky is dark. This reality is when humans are conscious and no longer part of the Matrix. In the first scene I analysed the, the camera moves along a split section of a wall next to Neo's office until he comes into view. This reminds us that there are walls all around and he is enclosed, this is important because it shows that in the Matrix people are enclosed to make them easier to control. The office he is in is very bland and the lighting is subdued to give the feeling of oppression, this demonstrates how the Matrix has been designed to be dull and uninspiring. The walls parting the office Neo works in are very short allowing people to see over them, this gives the impression of being watched all the time. When the delivery man enters the scene and gives Neo the package it is all done in a monotonous way. Neo and the delivery man do not make eye contact and even when the delivery man talks to Neo he does so in an emotionless way. This accentuates how people in the Matrix act like machines and tend not to show much human emotion. Neo opens the package to find a mobile phone inside. The phone rings as soon as neo opens it, this makes it seem like whoever is phoning him is watching him. When Neo answers the phone music starts, it is a fast beat but not very loud, this builds tension and helps make the mood more exciting. Morpheus speaks to Neo and tells him to look over his office wall, as he does this, the camera cuts to what he is looking at. Neo sees the agents talking to a woman. The music turns into a dramatic drum roll as the agents come into view; this builds drama in the scene and shows that the agents are not good. The agents are wearing black suits which contrast against the cream walls of the office and normal clothes everyone else are wearing. This shows us that they are important and not just normal people. The agents also wear sunglasses, eyes are an important part of the human face and are in some cultures said to be windows to the soul. By dressing the agents in sunglasses I think the director intended to make them less human and without a soul like machines. The agents all turn their heads in unison to look at Neo, this is very abnormal and creepy, and it makes them look as though they are all one unit. Neo quickly ducks down to stop the agents from seeing him. We see Neo crouching on the phone; the camera gives us an aerial view of Neo. The way we see him crouching in the corner of his office with no where to escape, like a caged animal is like a metaphor for the Matrix being like a Zoo for humans. As Neo leaps into a cubical on instruction from Morpheus the music slows down and Neo hides in a dark corner. The slow music makes the audience relax slightly and the dark lights emphasises that Neo is hiding away. As Neo then runs around the office the music gets much faster and builds excitement and energy. The camera tracks Neo as he runs away which makes the office look like a maze. The maze could also be interpreted as the Matrix with Morpheus is guiding him out of to escape from the agents, this mirrors what happens in the film when Morpheus really does guide Neo out of the Matrix. I think that by making the Matrix look like a dull, lifeless place the directors were trying to show us that the matrix was designed to be un-stimulating and mind controlling to stop people questioning their reality, so they don't realise that they are in the Matrix and learn how to control it to escape. The program gives people just enough stimulation to keep their minds occupied while the computers use their bodies for energy. When the scene on Morpheus's ship first starts the screen is black and we hear Morpheus's voice. This makes it feel as if we are hearing him through the ears of someone who is asleep. The light then gets very bright then fades to a shot of Trinity. The way the light is very bright then fades makes it seem like someone waking up because when you open your eyes after a deep sleep everything seems too bright and hurts your eyes. The shot of Trinity comes from an angle where Neo is laying which makes it seem like we are seeing her through his eyes. We then see an aerial view of Neo's head. He looks very pale and the bed he is laying on is a dark background which makes a contrast to his pale skin, this shows us that he hasn't been exposed to any or much light. He also has no hair with shows he hasn't been growing properly. The fact that he has no hair and is pale also makes him look like a new born baby, this metaphorically expresses how being taken out of the Matrix and coming into the real world is like being reborn. When we see the machines he is being monitored by he looks like a new born baby being kept in an incubator which demonstrates how weak he must be. The music is much slower and calmer in contrast to the fast energetic music that is heard in the matrix. This could be because time is more real in this world and is passing slower. As the camera cuts to different shots of Neo it fades out to black then back in, this could be portraying how time is moving slowly. The fading could also be Neo fading in and out of consciousness. It could have been intended by the directors to look like a hallucinatory affect, as if Neo was dreaming and only semi-conscious. When we see the side shot of Neo we see lots of long needles protruding from his body. The needles reminisce ones used in acupuncture which is an ancient art, mixed with a blue light that shines on Neo to give a futuristic feel. This illustrates the very old mixing with the new to impress upon the audience how science and medicine have moved on and become more advanced through the years, but not forgotten the old techniques like acupuncture. When Neo talks to Morpheus we see he has grown some hair, this shows us that a lot of time has passed. The music is very calm which sets a mood of security. The camera tracks along Neo's body showing all of the holes and instruments sticking out of him, this shows us that Neo has never used his muscles before so the medical equipment is helping him grow some faster. The fact that he has things sticking in his skin and going beneath the skin show us how things are real, but in the Matrix people are just digital projections of their minds. It's like when you pinch yourself to make sure you are not dreaming. The scene ends by fading to black again which could mean Neo is drifting out of consciousness or that time is passing.

History of Space Exploration - 771 Words

Introduction to the History of space exploration To start the researching of the future of the space exploration the very first thing we should do is to look through a history of this particular topic. The main reason for this is because the history is a fundamental background for our understanding and knowledge. Aeronautical engineering does not have a long and deep history, compared to many things. Moreover, some information cannot be proved nowadays and that is why the only one thing that we can do is to suppose and rely on accessible sources. Every year we are using more and more modern technologies in order to try to explore our solar system, unknown planets and deep space. However, we should think that our ancestors could not even believe that the physical space exploration will ever become a reality since antiquity. (Aerospace, n.d.) When we ponder over the early history of the space investigation we encounter the unquestionable fact that it used to be mostly theoretical. 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