Study Questions on Anselm and Aquinas

-What is the difference between a priori and a posteriori proofs for the existence of God?

-What is Anselm’s definition of God?

-What is the structure of Anselm’s proof?

-What is Gaunilo’s “lost island” objection to Anselm’s argument?  What is Anselm’s reply?

-Why does Aquinas reject a priori proofs for the existence of God?

-What is the basic structure of an a posteriori proof for the existence of God?

-Explain each of Aquinas’ “Five Ways” to prove the existence of God.