Meaning: Morris Cohen, a prominent American philosopher, presents an insightful observation in this quote. The quote addresses the longstanding debate and dichotomy between opposing systems of philosophy, such as realism and idealism. Cohen highlights the prevalent assumption that only one of these systems can be true, while the other must be false. This assertion has led to a deep-seated division among philosophers, each contending for the validation of their chosen philosophical framework. Cohen's quote invites reflection on the nature of philosophical truth and the implications of such dichotomous thinking within the discipline.

The dichotomy between realism and idealism has been a central point of contention in the history of philosophy. Realism posits that external objects exist independently of human perception, and they can be known through sensory experience. On the other hand, idealism argues that reality is fundamentally mental or spiritual in nature, and that external objects have no independent existence apart from the mind. These two philosophical positions have been at odds for centuries, with proponents of each arguing for the superiority and truth of their respective stance.

Cohen's quote captures the essence of the philosophical impasse that arises from the assumption that only one system can be true. By framing the debate in this manner, the philosophical discourse becomes entrenched in a binary opposition, leading to a rigid and polarized view of reality. This has perpetuated a historical struggle within philosophy, as each camp seeks to discredit the other in order to establish the exclusive truth of their own position.

Furthermore, the quote alludes to the "hopeless division" among philosophers on the question of which system is the true one. This division reflects the deep-seated nature of the conflict between realism and idealism, as well as the broader implications of dichotomous thinking within the field of philosophy. The rigid insistence on the exclusivity of one system being true inherently creates a barrier to open-minded inquiry and dialogue between opposing viewpoints.

Cohen's quote challenges us to reconsider the assumption that philosophical truth must be confined to a singular and mutually exclusive framework. It prompts us to question whether the pursuit of truth in philosophy should be predicated on the negation of alternative perspectives. Rather than being hopelessly divided, philosophers can approach the debate between realism and idealism with a more nuanced and inclusive perspective, recognizing the potential for both systems to offer valuable insights into the nature of reality.

In conclusion, Morris Cohen's quote encapsulates the enduring struggle within philosophy regarding the truth of opposing systems such as realism and idealism. By highlighting the assumption that only one system can be true, Cohen draws attention to the entrenched division and the resulting impasse within philosophical discourse. This quote serves as a catalyst for reevaluating the nature of philosophical truth and the need for a more open and inclusive approach to reconciling opposing viewpoints in the pursuit of a deeper understanding of reality.