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    If the First's essence just is its causal power, then the... — Carmelics
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    Challenges→The First's essence is identical with that by which the First causes the existence of other things

    If the First's essence just is its causal power, then the First is essentially relative to creatures, making divine simplicity dependent on the existence of a contingent world.

    ?Rate how convincing each reason is below to see the overall strength.
    1 reason for
    1 reason against

    Reasons For

    1 perspective
    Reason for
    ?
    • 1.Causal power is intrinsically relational—it exists only in relation to potential patients or effects.
      ?

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    • 2.If divine essence = causal power, and causal power is relational, then divine essence is relational.
      ?

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    • 3.A relational essence depends on the existence of relata; without creatures, the First lacks its defining power.
      ?

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    Reasons Against

    1 perspective
    Reason against
    ?
    • 1.Divine causal power could be intrinsic (an absolute perfection) exercised *toward* creatures, not defined *by* them.
      ?

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    • 2.Simplicity permits the First to possess all perfections essentially, including causality, independent of their manifestation.
      ?

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    • 3.Relationality in exercise differs from relationality in essence; God can be immutable in being while free in creating.
      ?

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    Connections

    2 topics

    Proof of definition segments1 linkedDivine Attributes1 linked

    Related

    A relational essence depends on the existence of relata; without creatures, the ...Causal power is intrinsically relational—it exists only in relation to potential...Divine causal power could be intrinsic (an absolute perfection) exercised *towar...If divine essence = causal power, and causal power is relational, then divine es...
    +3 moreShow less
    Relationality in exercise differs from relationality in essence; God can be immu...Simplicity permits the First to possess all perfections essentially, including c...The First's essence is identical with that by which the First causes the existen...

    Details

    Type
    claim
    Perspectives
    2 (1 for, 1 against)
    Edits
    1 edit