Problem
Consider the following two arguments (refer to them as (I) and (II)) and then answer the 3 questions that follow:
I. It is possible to think of an absolutely perfect being. If that absolutely perfect being exists only in the mind of the thinker, then it is not the most absolutely perfect being that can possibly be thought of. Therefore, the possibility of conceiving of an absolutely perfect being entails its necessary existence. So, this absolutely perfect being that must necessarily exist is the being we call God.
II. Every event in the observable world is caused by some event prior to it. Either (1) the series of causes is infinite, or (2) the series of causes goes back to a first cause, which is itself uncaused. But an infinite series of causes is impossible. Therefore, a first cause, which is God, exists.
i. For argument (I), write out the premises and conclusion for the argument. Insert any implicit assumptions, and indicate any sub-conclusions. Number the premises and conclusion(s) and produce a diagram for the argument using the method outlined in our course text.
ii. For argument (II), write out the premises and conclusion for the argument. Insert any implicit assumptions, and indicate any sub-conclusions. Number the premises and conclusion(s) and produce a diagram for the argument using the method outlined in our course text.
iii. Choose the argument you consider to be the better of the two arguments. Whichever argument you chose, construct a counterargument to that argument. Construct your counterargument charitably such that it is could be considered to be more convincing than the argument.