Meaning: The quote by Morris Cohen, a renowned philosopher, delves into the relationship between religion and intolerance, suggesting that the latter is not simply an accidental byproduct of religious belief, but rather an inherent consequence of the absolutist nature of religious claims. This statement provokes contemplation on the historical and contemporary manifestations of religious persecution and intolerance, inviting a critical examination of the fundamental principles and practices of various religious traditions.

Religious absolutism refers to the conviction that a particular belief system holds ultimate and irrefutable truth, often leading to the assertion of exclusive validity and righteousness. This absolutist stance can engender a sense of superiority and entitlement among adherents of a particular faith, which may manifest in the form of discrimination, persecution, or intolerance towards those who hold differing beliefs or lifestyles. Throughout history, such absolutist claims have been invoked to justify acts of violence, oppression, and marginalization in the name of religious purity and orthodoxy. From the Spanish Inquisition to contemporary instances of religiously motivated terrorism, the link between absolutist religious claims and acts of cruelty and intolerance is evident.

Furthermore, the quote alludes to the notion that these manifestations of intolerance are not incidental or tangential to religious belief, but rather integral to its very essence. This challenges the notion that acts of persecution committed in the name of religion are aberrations or distortions of the true nature of faith, implying instead that they are deeply rooted in the core principles and structures of religious systems. This perspective prompts a reevaluation of the ways in which religious doctrines and institutions may perpetuate or condone intolerance, as well as the ethical and theological implications of such dynamics.

It is essential to acknowledge that while religious absolutism has indeed been associated with intolerance and persecution, it does not encapsulate the entirety of religious experience or expression. Many religious traditions espouse principles of compassion, tolerance, and coexistence, and countless individuals and communities draw on their faith as a source of inspiration for acts of social justice, solidarity, and peacemaking. However, the quote directs attention to the potential dangers inherent in the absolutist tendencies within religious discourse and practice, urging a critical examination of the ways in which religious claims and convictions can intersect with dynamics of power, exclusion, and violence.

In contemporary society, the intersection of religion and intolerance continues to be a pressing and complex issue. Instances of religiously motivated discrimination, hate speech, and violence persist in various parts of the world, often fueled by absolutist interpretations of religious teachings and scriptures. Moreover, the rapid globalization and diversification of societies have brought to the fore new challenges related to religious pluralism and the coexistence of multiple belief systems within shared social spaces. In navigating these complexities, Cohen's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the need for nuanced and introspective engagements with the role of religion in shaping attitudes and behaviors towards others.

In conclusion, Morris Cohen's quote underscores the intrinsic connection between religious absolutism and the perpetuation of cruelty, persecution, and intolerance. By highlighting the inherent nature of these phenomena within religious contexts, the quote invites critical reflection on the ways in which religious claims and convictions intersect with dynamics of power, exclusion, and violence. This perspective encourages a nuanced understanding of the complexities inherent in the relationship between religion and intolerance, prompting individuals and communities to engage in constructive dialogue and action towards promoting empathy, understanding, and the safeguarding of human dignity across diverse religious and cultural landscapes.