Cruel persecutions and intolerance are not accidents, but grow out of the very essence of religion, namely, its absolute claims.

The quote by Morris Raphael Cohen, “Cruel persecutions and intolerance are not accidents, but grow out of the very essence of religion, namely, its absolute claims,” critiques the inherent potential for conflict within organized religion. Cohen emphasizes that when a belief system makes absolute or unquestionable claims, it can lead to intolerance, persecution, and social conflict, as adherents may feel justified in enforcing their views on others. The statement highlights a philosophical observation about the darker consequences of rigid dogmatism.

The origin of this quote comes from Morris Raphael Cohen, an American philosopher, legal scholar, and historian of philosophy who lived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Cohen was known for his critical examinations of law, logic, ethics, and religion, often analyzing how ideas and beliefs influence human behavior and societal structures. This quote reflects his intellectual approach to understanding the structural and moral consequences of religious absolutism.

At its core, the quote underscores the relationship between belief and human behavior. By linking persecution and intolerance to the “absolute claims” of religion, Cohen suggests that these negative outcomes are not random but arise naturally from the assertion of unchallengeable truths. It serves as a caution about the potential for authoritarianism and coercion whenever dogmatic convictions go unchecked.

Ultimately, Morris Raphael Cohen’s statement serves as a critical reflection on religion and society. It encourages individuals to recognize the dangers of rigid belief systems while promoting critical thinking, tolerance, and openness. The quote provides a philosophical lens for understanding how the structure of ideas, especially absolute ones, can profoundly shape social and moral outcomes.