One: Describe the reasoning behind Augustine's moral theory, particularly as it relates to the concepts of 'ordered' and 'disordered' love. For Augustine, what constitutes 'ordered' love, and why is it so important?
Two: Recount Anselm's ontological argument for the existence of God. Why is it that Anselm believes it impossible for us to imagine that God not exist?
Three: As thoroughly as possible, recount at least two of Aquinas' 'Five Ways' to demonstrate the existence of God. Bonus points may be awarded for for complete descriptions in addition to the required two!
Four: Describe the reasoning behind Aquinas' moral theory, particularly as it relates to the concepts of virtue and law. For Aquinas, what constitutes human bliss or happiness, and how can it be achieved?
Five: How successful do you think Augustine is in his effort to reconcile the best of the philosophical tradition with the best of the Christian tradition? By Augustine, philosophy (and its ratio-centric bias) can truly be reconciled with Christianity (and its declarative authority bias). And, further, such a reconciliation must happen across the bridge of a true and proper understanding of the nature of love.
Needless to say, this is a monumental task. In your considered opinion, how successful is Augustine in his task? And, as ever and always, WHY do you think so?
In your answer, be sure to consider objections that might be raised! If you think reconciliation impossible, please detail WHY (in philosophic, i.e. ratio-centric, terms) you think so! If you think reconciliation possible, please detail WHY (in philosophic, i.e. ratio-centric, terms) you think so!
Since this is a philosophy course, rather than one of religion or spirituality, only philosophic.