Meaning: The quote by Morris Cohen delves into the idea that philosophers, like all individuals, are susceptible to being influenced by their experiences and circumstances when forming their beliefs and viewpoints. Cohen suggests that philosophers may initially adopt certain perspectives due to a variety of factors, such as their upbringing, education, or personal experiences, and subsequently seek out justifications and rationales to support these views.

This notion raises an important question about the objectivity and impartiality of philosophical thought. Philosophers are often revered for their ability to engage in critical thinking and reason, but Cohen's quote suggests that their cognitive processes may not be immune to the influence of subjective biases and predispositions.

The quote also invites consideration of the broader implications for the field of philosophy. If philosophers are indeed influenced by a set of predetermined circumstances that shape their beliefs, it challenges the notion of philosophical inquiry as a purely rational and objective pursuit. Instead, it suggests that philosophical arguments and conclusions may be inherently entwined with the personal and experiential aspects of the philosopher.

Moreover, Cohen's assertion can be viewed in the context of the ongoing debate about the nature of truth and objectivity in philosophy. If philosophers are prone to seeking out reasons to justify their preconceived views, it raises questions about the extent to which philosophical arguments are genuinely founded on objective reasoning and evidence. This challenges the traditional perception of philosophy as a discipline that strives to uncover universal truths through rigorous intellectual inquiry.

In examining the quote, it is important to acknowledge the complexity of the human mind and the intricate interplay of conscious and subconscious influences on thought processes. Philosophers, like all individuals, are shaped by their cultural, social, and personal contexts, which inevitably impact their philosophical perspectives. These influences can manifest in the form of cognitive biases, emotional attachments, and ideological commitments that may subconsciously steer the direction of their philosophical inquiries.

Cohen's quote also resonates with contemporary discussions in psychology and cognitive science, which emphasize the role of cognitive biases and heuristics in shaping human reasoning. Research in these fields has demonstrated that individuals often engage in motivated reasoning, where they selectively interpret information and arguments to align with their pre-existing beliefs. This phenomenon aligns with Cohen's suggestion that philosophers may actively seek out reasons to validate their established viewpoints.

Furthermore, the quote prompts reflection on the ethical dimensions of philosophical inquiry. If philosophers are predisposed to rationalizing their preconceived beliefs, it raises concerns about intellectual integrity and the potential for confirmation bias to undermine the pursuit of truth. It underscores the importance of self-awareness and critical self-reflection for philosophers to recognize and mitigate the influence of their own biases in their philosophical endeavors.

In conclusion, Morris Cohen's quote offers a thought-provoking insight into the potential for philosophers to be influenced by their prior convictions and experiences when formulating their philosophical views. It challenges the idealized image of philosophers as purely rational and objective thinkers, highlighting the complex interplay of personal, cultural, and cognitive factors that shape philosophical thought. Ultimately, the quote stimulates critical inquiry into the nature of philosophical reasoning and the extent to which it is susceptible to subjective biases and predispositions.