Rethinking the Ontological Argument.. A Neoclassical Theistic Response

This monograph presents a sophisticated defense of the ontological argument through the lens of neoclassical theism, particularly as developed by Charles Hartshorne. Dombrowski engages critically with both historical and contemporary versions of the argument, seeking to rehabilitate what many consider the most controversial of theistic proofs. The work distinguishes itself by advocating for a process-philosophical interpretation that avoids many traditional criticisms while maintaining the argument's essential logical structure.

The author begins by examining classical formulations from Anselm through Descartes and Leibniz, identifying their vulnerabilities to standard objections concerning existence as a predicate and the illegitimate move from conceptual to real existence. However, rather than abandoning the project, Dombrowski argues that these failures stem from an inadequate metaphysical framework—specifically, classical theism's conception of divine perfection as static completeness. The neoclassical alternative conceives God as the supremely excellent being whose perfection includes dynamic responsiveness to the world, thereby reconceptualizing what "that than which nothing greater can be conceived" entails.

Central to Dombrowski's approach is Hartshorne's modal version of the ontological argument, which shifts focus from existence simpliciter to necessary existence. This formulation leverages modal logic to argue that if God's existence is even possible, then God exists necessarily. The work carefully develops this reasoning while addressing objections from contemporary analytic philosophers, including Plantinga's concerns about possible worlds and Kane's criticisms regarding the coherence of necessary existence. Dombrowski demonstrates how the neoclassical framework provides resources for answering these challenges that classical theism lacks.

The monograph's significance extends beyond defending a single argument. By situating the ontological argument within a cumulative case for theism, Dombrowski shows how it complements rather than competes with other theistic proofs. The work also contributes to broader metaphysical discussions about modality, perfection, and the nature of necessary beings. Its analytic rigor combined with historical sensitivity makes it valuable for both philosophers of religion and those interested in the intersection of process thought and analytical philosophy. The text ultimately argues that properly understood through neoclassical categories, the ontological argument remains a viable and important component of natural theology, deserving renewed consideration rather than dismissal.