We may have three main objects in the study of truth: first, to find it when we are seeking it; second, to demonstrate it after we have found it; third, to distinguish it from error by examining it. — Blaise Pascal

The introduction to this series can be found here.

Part one of this series can be found here.

In my recent post on first principles, we learned that a foundational metaphysical principle is that from which everything else in its order follows, a self-evident axiom of thought or being that is actually undeniable. We briefly looked at the principle of noncontradiction and the principle of existence as axioms which correspond to this definition. Regarding the principle of noncontradiction and the importance of first principles, Aristotle reminds us,

By the starting-points of demonstration I mean the common beliefs, on which all men base their proofs; e.g. that everything must be either affirmed or denied, and that a thing cannot at the same time be and not be, and all other such premises.¹

Now we will examine the first premise in the cosmological argument from Being, or reality itself. The argument follows this line of reasoning:

1. Something exists (e.g., I do)

2. Nothing cannot produce something.

3. Therefore, something exists eternally and necessarily.

A. It exists eternally because if ever there was absolutely nothing, then there would always be absolutely nothing because nothing cannot produce something.

B. It exists necessarily because everything cannot be a contingent being because all contingent beings need a cause of their existence.

4. I am not a necessary and eternal being (since I change).

5. Therefore, both God (a Necessary Being) and I (a contingent being) exist. (= theism)

We will explore all of the principles for this demonstration as we move through this series. For now, we will look more carefully into premise one: Something exists (or, more technically, being is). This premise is simply the principle of existence. The principle of existence is a statement of reality. Reality exists. Something does in fact exist. This principle cannot be denied because one must exist in order to deny existence. This is not the same point that Descartes was making with his circular statement, “I think, therefore, I am” (his famous Cogito dictum). Descartes had to be, or to exist, in order to think, doubt, or do anything else. He had to exist first. The principle of existence is primary.

The principle of existence is so clear, fundamental, and directly knowable in itself that it requires no proof or further demonstration. It is self-evident and simply foolish to deny.

The principle of existence is an affirmation of being – the totality of the universe and reality.

1 Aristotle, Metaphysics, trans. W. D. Ross, vol. 7, Great Books of the Western World (Chicago: Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc., 1996), 515.