Observation of Anselm Essay

Submitted By zagarae
Words: 630
Pages: 3

There has been a longstanding objection of faith throughout antiquity, which is solely based on the idea that it does not align with practical reason. In a society that was growing intellectually and technologically, it was important to question knowledge and the basic principles that guided life. There were several groups of people that denied a relationship with faith and reason. Throughout this essay, I will use examples from Anselm to show that faith and reason are not contrary ideas, but faith and reason work together to present information to believers. Believers and non –believers alike often ponder how and why God became man and died for our salvation. There are no set definitions of answers that can be given in response to these queries, and if there were, there would no longer be mysteries of faith, but an intelligent mind can articulate adequate reasons. Anselm proves that it is plain to all in its solution and that the reasoning behind it is sufficient. His verification of faith and reason is given through a dialogue with Boso, who earnestly argues this thesis. Anselm begins with defending the necessity and cause of God taking form in human nature. He argues that the discussion of these very topics requires knowledge of power, necessity, and will. These subjects are at the forefront of these opinions. Anselm remarks: “There is no question that intelligent nature, which finds its happiness, both now and forever, in the contemplation of God, was foreseen by him in a certain reasonable and complete number…” (Chap. XVI) I believe that this quote is a direct explanation of the validity of faith and reason. God consciously made each human been with free will so that they would have the ability to think freely as well. God would welcome questions and investigations of his true motives, as is human nature, and proves to believers that he is there and affirms his plan for us. It shows that this was not an accident by God, but is indeed the nature in which he created us. Not to blindly accept the ties between our faith and the reasoning for it. Boso presents opposing points towards Anselm throughout the dialogue, until the point where he concedes that he can no longer oppose the examples and proof of reason that Anselm is presenting (Chap. XVIII). This shows that while Anselm was initially weary in laying out the reasons for human nature in