KANT AND THE CLASSICAL METAPHYSICAL PROOFS OF GOD’S EXISTENCE: HOW THE PROOFS CAN PLAY A REGULATIVE FUNCTION IN THE SPHERE OF PURE/SPECULATIVE REASON

Ada Agada

Abstract


In this paper, I question Kant’s wholesale rejection of the classical metaphysical proofs of God’s existence. I argue that the metaphysical proofs can play a regulative function even in the sphere of pure or speculative reason and without us necessarily invoking practical reason. I contend that the metaphysical proofs have a value beyond polemics as they help throw light on the question of existence in general. I note that evidence of the fine-tuning of the universe raises the plausibility level of the metaphysical arguments. Adopting the method  of  philosophical  analysis,  I  conclude  that  the  metaphysical  proofs  reinforce  faith in  God  in  those  who  think  God  exists  even  as  they  enhance  the  intelligibility  of  the concept of God, thus conferring non-polemical value on them, regardless of  their failure to conclusively demonstrate God’s existence.

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