Meaning: The quote "Literature and philosophy both allow past idols to be resurrected with a frequency which would be truly distressing to a sober scientist" by Morris Cohen, a prominent philosopher, presents an intriguing perspective on the nature of literature and philosophy in contrast to the empirical and objective approach of science. This quote sheds light on the divergent ways in which these disciplines engage with the past and the implications of their respective methods for understanding and interpreting historical figures and ideas.

Literature and philosophy, as suggested by Cohen, possess the remarkable ability to resurrect past idols, figures, and ideas from history. In literature, this resurrection often occurs through the portrayal of historical characters in novels, plays, and poetry. These creative works provide a platform for the reimagining and reanimation of historical figures, allowing them to be reintroduced to contemporary audiences. Similarly, philosophy engages with the past by revisiting the ideas and theories of ancient and modern thinkers, seeking to understand and interpret their relevance to the present. Both literature and philosophy, in their own ways, breathe new life into the past, allowing it to permeate the present and shape the future.

The notion of "past idols" being resurrected with a distressing frequency to a "sober scientist" underscores the fundamental disparity between the methods of literature and philosophy on one hand and the empirical, evidence-based approach of science on the other. While literature and philosophy embrace the revisiting and reimagining of historical figures and ideas, the scientist, particularly one who adheres strictly to the principles of empiricism, may find such frequent resurrections disconcerting. Science, with its emphasis on verifiable evidence and reproducible results, relies on a more rigid framework for engaging with the past, often requiring substantial empirical support before embracing historical concepts or resurrecting past idols.

Cohen's use of the term "sober scientist" implies a certain sobriety of approach, a disciplined adherence to empirical evidence, and a cautious skepticism when confronted with the frequent resurrection of past idols. In contrast, literature and philosophy, unencumbered by the same empirical constraints, possess a certain freedom to explore, interpret, and resurrect historical figures and ideas with a greater degree of creative license and imaginative speculation.

The quote also serves to highlight the distinct roles and functions of literature, philosophy, and science in the broader context of human understanding and knowledge. While science is primarily concerned with empirical observation, experimentation, and the formulation of testable hypotheses, literature and philosophy offer alternative modes of engaging with history and the human experience. They provide avenues for exploring the complexities of human existence, morality, and the enduring relevance of past ideas and individuals, often transcending the limitations of purely empirical inquiry.

In conclusion, Morris Cohen's quote offers a thought-provoking reflection on the divergent approaches of literature, philosophy, and science to the resurrection of past idols and ideas. It underscores the dynamic and imaginative nature of literature and philosophy, which embrace the frequent revisiting and reinterpretation of historical figures and concepts, in contrast to the more cautious and empirical approach of science. By recognizing the distinct roles of these disciplines in engaging with the past, we gain a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted ways in which human knowledge and understanding are shaped and enriched.