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This proof exploits an edge case in dualistic human reasoning which occurs at the intersection of ontology and epistemology. Lets do some term re-writing, so w
by ukj 7y ago
This proof exploits an edge case in dualistic human reasoning which occurs at the intersection of ontology and epistemology.
Lets do some term re-writing, so we can move away from the emotional trigger that is the God-word.
1. God, by definition, is that for which no greater can be conceived.
This conception of God is equivalent to what we call 'The Universe'.
Rewritten: The Universe, by definition, is that for which no greater can be conceived.
2. God exists in the understanding.
The Universe itself doesn't exist in the same way a planet, or a galaxy exists.
The Universe is ALL things that exist.
Conceptually it's the set of all sets.
Planets, stars and galaxies exist ontologically as members of the set.
The Universe exists only epistemologically as a category in your head.
Rewritten: The Universe exists in the understanding.
3. If God exists in the understanding, we could imagine Him to be greater by existing in reality.
Rewritten: If The Universe exists in the understanding, we could imagine The Universe to be greater by existing in reality.
Uh what? We could imagine The Universe to exist within The Universe?
From a contradiction anything follows.
It's simply a case of Equivocation fallacy. Godel uses the word 'exists' in multiple senses throughout the argument.
The premises could have been about anything.