A Critique of Robert S. Hartman's 'Four Axiological Proofs of the Infinite Value of Man'

Author

Raymond M. Pruitt, University of Tennessee - Knoxville

Date of Award

12-1971

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Major

Philosophy

Major Professor

Rem B. Edwards

Committee Members

John W. Davis, Dwight Van de Vate, Jr.

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to examine Professor Robert S. Hartman's notion that the individual human person is of infinite value. In a recent paper he attempts to establish his concept by arguments which are founded upon four axiological definitions of man: epistemological, logical, ontological, and teleological.

The thesis is concerned with the validity of the arguments, their applicability to the existing human person, and whether or not Professor Hartman has made unwarranted assumptions.

I conclude that his arguments tend to be circular, and there are too many assumptions. I believe he has made a good case for the uniqueness of the human person, but the notion that man is infinite has not been sufficiently clarified.

Recommended Citation

Pruitt, Raymond M., "A Critique of Robert S. Hartman's 'Four Axiological Proofs of the Infinite Value of Man'. " Master's Thesis, University of Tennessee, 1971.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_gradthes/3541