"If religion cannot restrain evil, it cannot claim effective power for good"

Morris Raphael Cohen's quote, "If faith can not restrain evil, it can not claim efficient power for great", recommends a vital evaluation of the ethical authority and functional significance of religious beliefs in society. The analysis of this quote requires diving into the dual aspects of faith: its capability to enforce ethical restraint and its function in promoting positive values.

First of all, Cohen's viewpoint acknowledges the historical and social expectation that religious beliefs serves as an ethical compass. Faiths have typically been linked with ethical guidelines, offering believers with a framework for discerning right from wrong. The effectiveness of faith, in this view, depends on its capability to restrict harmful habits and promote social consistency. However, Cohen raises a critical point: if faith fails in curbing evil-- whether in the type of violence, injustice, or any form of moral wrongdoing-- it loses credibility as a moral authority. This failure questions the useful power of faith to establish peace and justice, consequently deteriorating its claim as a force for great.

Moreover, Cohen challenges supporters of religion to reassess the impact of their beliefs and institutions. If these structures are impotent versus evil, it implies a requirement for self-questioning and potentially reform. Organizations claiming moral supremacy should critically examine their doctrines and practices to ensure they contribute to limiting harmful actions effectively.

In addition, Cohen's statement can be extended to represent a more comprehensive review of any ideology or institution declaring ethical high ground without concrete results. For religious beliefs to keep its influence and significance, it should show not only theoretical virtues but also practical efficacy in promoting ethical habits and empathy.

In essence, Cohen's assertion demands accountability and concrete outcomes from religious entities. It emphasizes the necessity for faith to be a living, active force in reforming both specific and societal actions positively, or danger being dismissed as inadequate in its objective as an ethical and ethical guide.