I made one great mistake in my life-when I signed the letter to President Roosevelt recommending that atom bombs be made but there was some justification-the danger that the Germans would make them.
Interpretation
Einstein reflects on the moral implications of his recommendation for atomic bomb development during wartime.
In this quote, Albert Einstein acknowledges the grave error he believes he made by endorsing the creation of atomic bombs during World War II. He grapples with the moral complexities of his decision, which was motivated by the fear that enemy nations might develop such weapons first. This statement highlights the burdens of scientific responsibility and the profound consequences of decisions made in times of war.
In practice
During a lecture on scientific ethics, one might reference Einstein's quote to discuss the moral responsibilities of scientists.
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.
If I could not be persuaded into doing what I thought wrong, I never will be tricked into it.
Remember when life's path is steep to keep your mind even.
We may lay in a stock of pleasures, as we would lay in a stock of wine, but if defer tasting them too long, we shall find that both are soured by age.
I can't afford to hate anyone. I don't have that kind of time.
We throw all our attention on the utterly idle question whether A has done as well as B, when the only question is whether A has done as well as he could.
If you ask him: "What is silence?" he will answer, "It is the Great Mystery! The holy silence is His voice!" If you ask: "What are the fruits of silence?" he will say: "They are self-control, true courage or endurance, patience, dignity, and reverence. Silence is the cornerstone of character."
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