Meaning: The quote you've provided is from the philosopher Jacques Derrida, a prominent figure in the field of deconstruction. In this quote, Derrida is addressing the phenomenon of critics organizing and engaging in what he describes as an "obsessive personality cult" in his case. He suggests that philosophers should be able to question and moderate this type of behavior.

To understand the context of this quote, it's important to familiarize ourselves with Jacques Derrida's work and the reception it has received. Derrida is known for his deconstructive approach to philosophy, which involves critically analyzing and dismantling the underlying assumptions and binary oppositions in texts and discourse. His work has had a significant impact on fields such as literary theory, cultural studies, and philosophy.

Throughout his career, Derrida faced both admiration and criticism for his ideas. The quote you've provided seems to reflect his frustration with the way some critics have approached his work. It suggests that these critics have not engaged with his ideas in a balanced and critical manner but have instead focused on Derrida as a personality, creating a cult-like following around him.

Derrida's call for philosophers to question and moderate this behavior can be seen as a plea for a more rigorous and objective evaluation of his work. He seems to be cautioning against the tendency to elevate a philosopher to the status of a cult figure, which can distort the reception and understanding of their ideas.

It's worth noting that Derrida's own ideas have been subject to intense debate and interpretation. Some have embraced his deconstructive approach as a revolutionary way of understanding language and meaning, while others have criticized it as overly abstract or even as a threat to traditional philosophical and literary values.

In the broader context of philosophy, Derrida's quote raises important questions about the relationship between a philosopher's work and their public persona. It prompts us to consider the ways in which personal charisma or controversy can affect the reception of philosophical ideas. It also invites reflection on the role of critical engagement and moderation in the interpretation of philosophical thought.

Overall, Derrida's quote captures his concern with the potential distortion of his work through the lens of personality cults and urges philosophers to approach his ideas with a critical and balanced perspective. It serves as a reminder of the importance of focusing on the substance of philosophical arguments rather than being swayed by extraneous factors.