The Ontological Argument from Descartes to Hegel

The ontological argument for the existence of God has been a constant in the philosophy of religion since its first formulation by Anselm of Canterbury in the 11th century. In the 17th century, it was revived by Rend Descartes, and ever since has been a subject of dispute and much debate among philosophers. In this interesting history of the argument, philosopher Kevin J Harrelson shows that the defence of the ontological argument is more consistent and persuasive than has frequently been supposed. In addition to correcting many common misunderstandings about the argument, the author highlights what appears to be an irremovable tension between the conclusion and the explanation of the proof. Both the common objections to the argument and its historical development in early modern philosophy are explained in light of this tension.