Meaning: The quote "Again, both literature and philosophy work by appealing to certain reigning idols" by Morris Cohen, a prominent philosopher, encapsulates the idea that both literature and philosophy often rely on existing dominant beliefs, values, or ideas to convey their messages. This concept can be understood from multiple perspectives and has been a subject of discussion and analysis within the realms of literature and philosophy.

In literature, the idea of appealing to reigning idols can be interpreted in various ways. It could refer to the use of established literary conventions, archetypes, or motifs that have been prevalent in society for a long time. Authors often draw on these familiar elements to create works that resonate with their audience. This reliance on existing norms and archetypes allows literature to connect with readers on a deeper level, as it taps into shared cultural and societal symbols.

Furthermore, literature often reflects the prevailing values and beliefs of a particular time and place. By incorporating these dominant ideologies into their works, authors can engage with their audience by addressing themes and issues that are relevant and meaningful within the broader societal context. Whether it's through the portrayal of heroism, love, or moral dilemmas, literature reflects and reinforces the existing cultural idols, shaping and perpetuating them through storytelling.

In the realm of philosophy, the concept of appealing to reigning idols can be seen in the way philosophical ideas are developed and communicated. Philosophers frequently engage with existing philosophical traditions, theories, and concepts, building upon or challenging them to articulate their own philosophical viewpoints. This process of engagement with established ideas allows philosophers to enter into a dialogue with the intellectual heritage of humanity, contributing to the ongoing evolution of philosophical discourse.

Moreover, the quote also suggests that philosophy, like literature, is not immune to the influence of prevailing societal values and norms. Philosophical inquiries often grapple with the dominant ideologies, beliefs, and assumptions of their time, seeking to interrogate, critique, or reaffirm them through rigorous intellectual analysis. By engaging with these reigning idols, philosophers can illuminate the underlying principles that shape human thought and action, offering insights into the nature of existence, morality, and knowledge.

Overall, Morris Cohen's quote highlights the interconnectedness of literature and philosophy with the prevailing idols of society. Both disciplines draw upon and engage with existing cultural, intellectual, and moral paradigms to convey their messages and advance their respective inquiries. By acknowledging the influence of reigning idols, we gain a deeper understanding of how literature and philosophy interact with and contribute to the cultural and intellectual landscape, shaping and challenging the prevailing ideas of their time.

In conclusion, Morris Cohen's quote serves as a thought-provoking reflection on the relationship between literature, philosophy, and the prevailing idols of society. It invites us to consider the ways in which these disciplines rely on existing beliefs, values, and ideas to convey their messages and address fundamental questions about human existence and the world we inhabit. Whether through the exploration of archetypes in literature or the engagement with philosophical traditions, both literature and philosophy are deeply intertwined with the reigning idols of their respective eras, shaping and reflecting the cultural and intellectual currents of their time.