I know that it is a hopeless undertaking to debate about fundamental value judgements. For instance, if someone approves, as a goal, the extirpation of the human race from the earth, one cannot refute such a viewpoint on rational grounds. But if there is agreement on certain goals and values, one can argue rationally about the means by which these objectives may be obtained.
Interpretation
Debating fundamental values can be futile, but rational discussion is possible when there is agreement on goals.
In this quote, Einstein highlights the challenge of debating fundamental value judgments, as these are deeply personal and often subjective. He suggests that while it is impossible to rationally argue against certain extreme viewpoints, fruitful discussions can occur when there is a shared understanding of common goals and values, allowing for rational debate about the means to achieve those ends.
In practice
This quote can be used in a discussion about ethical dilemmas in philosophy classes.
I cannot then believe in this concept of an anthropomorphic God who has the powers of interfering with these natural laws. As I said before, the most beautiful and most profound religious emotion that we can experience is the sensation of the mystical. And this mysticality is the power of all true science.
If I would follow your advice and Jesus could perceive it, he, as a Jewish teacher, surely would not approve of such behavior.
I want to know all Gods thoughts; all the rest are just details.
In the middle of adversity there is great opportunity.
I do not believe that civilization will be wiped out in a war fought with the atomic bomb. Perhaps two-thirds of the people of the earth will be killed.
To me the worst thing seems to be a school principally to work with methods of fear, force and artificial authority. Such treatment destroys the sound sentiments, the sincerity and the self-confidence of pupils and produces a subservient subject.
In the glad old days, before the rise of modern morbidities...it used to be thought a disadvantage to be misunderstood.
All the same, I should like it all plain and clear," said he obstinately, putting on his business manner (usually reserved for people who tried to borrow money off him), and doing his best to appear wise and prudent and professional and live up to Gandalf's recommendation. "Also I should like to know about risks, out-of-pocket expenses, time required and remuneration, and so forth"--by which he meant: "What am I going to get out of it ? and am I going to come back alive?
I say quite deliberately that the Christian religion, as organized in its Churches, has been and still is the principal enemy of moral progress in the world.
I am still raw. I say I may be back. You know what lies are for. Even in your Zen heaven we shan't meet.
It is to be remarked that a good many people are born curiously unfitted for the fate waiting them on this earth.
I have observed that society in general always seems to honor its living conformists and its dead troublemakers.
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