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

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Description

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.

Reviews

The Nicene Creed begins with the claim that God is the maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen. Does this claim necessitate the claim that God is also the creator of abstract objectspropositions, sets, concepts, etc.if such there be In this volume, Paul Gould brings together a first rate collection of scholars articulating and defending a wide range of positions regarding the relationship between abstracta and God. The introduction and the responses to each chapter by the other contributors make this a very approachable and teachable volume. -- Kevin Timpe, Professor of Philosophy, Northwest Nazarene University, USA
Beyond the Control of God is a much-needed andfor many like melong-awaited book! Here we have a lively metaphysical engagement by leading philosophers on the fascinating, long-standing, and vitally important conversation about God, Platonism, nominalism, universals/abstract objects, particulars/concrete objects, and (non)instantiation. A superb resource and guide! * Paul Copan, Professor and Pledger Family Chair of Philosophy and Ethics, Palm Beach Atlantic University, West Palm Beach, Florida *
Paul Gould's edited book updates the state of play, and can serve as an excellent introduction to the debate for those of us who have not been following it closely. After Gould's introduction, there are six major contributions, each followed by critiques from each of the other contributors and a final rejoinder from the main author of the section. [] Clearly, there are a lot of moving parts in this discussion; achieving simplicity along one dimension often brings with it unanticipated complexity in other respects. The essays in Beyond the Control of God may not point us to a clear solution, but they enable to see a lot of what is at stake in the controversy. Highly recommended. -- William Hasker, Huntington University * Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews *
This book offers a riveting introduction to the nature of abstract objects, and Gods relationship to such objects. The debate format makes the discussion engaging. The lead essays are short, and the critical responses are even shorter. This forces the authors to get straight to the point, which has its own perks for the reader. It makes the essays easier to consume. Beyond the Control of God certainly whets the appetite. It is highly recommended for those interested in the philosophy of religion. * Faith and Philosophy, Vol. 32, No. 1, January 2015, reviewed by R.T. Mullins, University of Notre Dame, USA *

Author Bio

Paul M. Gould is Assistant Professor of Philosophy and Christian Apologetics at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, USA.