Liberalism is an attitude rather than a set of dogmas - an attitude that insists upon questioning all plausible and self-evident propositions, seeking not to reject them but to find out what evidence there is to support them rather than their possible alternatives.

The quote "Liberalism is an attitude rather than a set of dogmas - an attitude that insists upon questioning all plausible and self-evident propositions, seeking not to reject them but to find out what evidence there is to support them rather than their possible alternatives." is attributed to Morris Raphael Cohen, an influential American philosopher and legal scholar. This statement highlights the idea that liberalism is primarily a way of thinking rather than a fixed ideology. Cohen emphasizes that liberalism involves a critical and open-minded approach, characterized by questioning assumptions and rigorously evaluating evidence rather than blindly accepting established beliefs.

The meaning of the quote centers on the value of intellectual inquiry and skepticism within liberal thought. Rather than adhering rigidly to preconceived dogmas, liberalism encourages the continuous examination of ideas, including those considered self-evident or widely accepted. This attitude fosters a spirit of open debate and a willingness to consider alternative viewpoints, aiming to discover truth through evidence and reason.

The origin of this quote reflects Cohen’s work in philosophy and law, where he advocated for rational discourse and critical thinking as foundations for a free society. His perspective on liberalism aligns with the broader tradition of Enlightenment thought, which prizes reason, inquiry, and skepticism as essential to progress and justice. This quote encapsulates his belief that liberalism is a dynamic and thoughtful approach rather than a static set of rules.

In summary, Morris Raphael Cohen’s quote underscores that liberalism is an attitude of questioning and evidence-seeking. It challenges dogmatism and encourages a reasoned evaluation of ideas, promoting intellectual freedom and openness to new perspectives as vital components of a healthy society.