Beyond the Control of God?: Six Views on The Problem of God and Abstract Objects

by Paul M. Gould (Editor)

The question of God's relationship to abstract objects touches on a number of perennial concerns related to the nature of God. God is typically thought to be an independent and self-sufficient being. Further, God is typically thought to be supremely sovereign such that all reality distinct from God is dependent on God's creative and sustaining activity. However, the view that there are abstract objects seems to be a repudiation of this traditional understanding of God. Abstract objects are typically thought to exist necessarily and it is natural to think that if something exists necessarily, it does so because it is its nature to exist. Thus, abstract objects exist independently of God. Philosophers have called this the problem of God and abstract objects.

In this book, six contemporary solutions to the problem are set out and defended against objections. It will be valuable for all students or scholars who are interested in the concept and nature of God.

Genres: Philosophy, Theology

224 pages, Paperback

First published March 27, 2014

Reviews

[CSP · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent overview of the debate over God's relation to abstract objects. Each chapter reads like a shortened published paper from the author with even shorter responses from the other authors. While I don't want to agree with Dr. Craig's antiplatonist view, I must admit that he appeared to be the most formidable of all the writers. Perhaps, if I find the funds and time, I might buck up and get his "God and Abstract Objects" textbook...

This book also gave me a greater appreciation for the importance of metaphysics - an area that often gets derided for mulling over superfluous and inconsequential concepts. Metaphysics is perhaps most important to theists who are trying to understand the nature of God. On the other hand, I think this book would be interesting to atheists as well as it provides useful example applications of one's metaphysical commitments.

I would recommend this book to a graduate philosophy student or upperclassman undergraduate interested in the topic of abstract objects.

For those who have access to academic writings, the Philosophia Christi Journal has more publications on this topic by these authors.

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great source for a variety of ideas pertaining to the “problem” of God and abstract objects. The format is quite helpful, providing the authors with space to respond to each other’s essays.

[Brad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Too bright to see, too loud to hear, too potent to smell, too flavorful to taste, too sensational.

Abstract Objects + God?