One thing that may help is to try to explain the argument to a friend who is not taking this class.
Here are some possible topics to discuss:
1. What makes the argument “work”?
2. Which critiques that were covered makes the most sense?
3. Is the parody argument a good critique to Anselm’s ontological argument?
4. What is “cool” or “frustrating” about the modal ontological argument?
Modal Ontological Argument
Philosophical questions are some of the most complicated to answer since they have multiple answers and explanations. However, some philosophers have presented clear and convincing arguments to some of the most complicated philosophical questions. One such ‘cool’ case is the modal ontological argument, for instance, for God’s existence. The argument is substantial since it creates a moral dimension in explaining problematical reasoning involving modality. The modal argument situates the problem or issue in terms of possible worlds, firmly rooted in ordinary thinking. By locating the argument within the day-to-day thinking, it becomes possible for a layperson to understand it and unravel a philosophical mystery. Furthermore, the modal argument appeals to reason or rationality of humanity. For example, the argument seeks to unravel the mystery of God’s existence by focusing on the logical possibility that a Supreme Being exists.
Regardless of some criticism of the argument, such as the claim that maximal greatness or perforation necessarily suggest existence and the logical possibility of existence, many people tend to believe in things that appear logical. Thus, as long as a philosopher can appeal to logic, it follows that they are more likely to convince an audience. For example, many people in the world believe in God’s existence because philosophers have used rationality to persuade them. Therefore, the modal ontological argument is valid and convincing to the existent that the philosopher can appeal to logic and that he or she does not make a logical mistake that could make an audience doubt the validity of the claim made. Generally, I would argue that the modal ontological argument is a ‘cool’ model of answering philosophical questions.