On the existence and relevance of God

Book Description

In this rigorous philosophical exploration, Clement Dore tackles one of humanity's most enduring questions through the lens of logical reasoning and theological inquiry. The work begins by examining and defending various forms of the ontological argument, presenting a case for God's existence based on logical necessity rather than empirical observation.

Dore addresses the challenging problem of suffering in the world, arguing that widespread pain and hardship do not constitute evidence against divine existence. His reasoning centers on the concept that if God exists as a logically necessary being, then empirical observations about worldly conditions become irrelevant to questions of divine reality. This framework leads to fresh interpretations of core Christian doctrines, including the Trinity, Incarnation, and Vicarious Atonement.

The author then turns to morality's foundations, proposing that only God can adequately explain why moral obligations carry such profound importance in human life. He develops a theistic version of Ideal Observer Theory and applies this framework to contemporary ethical debates, including artificial contraception and abortion.

The final sections present a compelling argument that God relates to our physical universe in ways similar to those proposed by eighteenth-century philosopher Berkeley. Dore suggests that theistic phenomenalism offers the most satisfactory response to perceptual skepticism, providing a coherent worldview that bridges spiritual reality and empirical experience.

This work invites readers to engage with fundamental questions about existence, morality, and the nature of reality itself.