The opinion of the world does not affect me. I have placed as the real values in my life what follows when I am dead.
Interpretation
Tesla emphasizes focusing on lasting values rather than societal opinions or material concerns.
In this quote, Nikola Tesla reflects on the importance of prioritizing what truly matters in life, which he perceives to be the values and contributions that endure beyond one's lifetime. He rejects external judgments and societal norms, asserting that his legacy should be shaped by his intrinsic beliefs and the impact he leaves behind, rather than the fleeting approval of others.
In practice
This quote can be used in a motivational speech about pursuing one's true passions.
Even matter called inorganic, believed to be dead, responds to irritants and gives unmistakable evidence of a living principle within. Everything that exists, organic or inorganic, animated or inert, is susceptible to stimulus from the outside.
Our senses enable us to perceive only a minute portion of the outside world.
Every living being is an engine geared to the wheelwork of the universe. Though seemingly affected only by its immediate surrounding, the sphere of external influence extends to infinite distance.
The history of science shows that theories are perishable. With every new truth that is revealed we get a better understanding of Nature and our conceptions and views are modified.
The Secretary of Hygiene or Physical Culture will be far more important in the cabinet of the President of the United States who holds office in the year 2035 than the Secretary of War.
I am unwilling to accord to some small−minded and jealous individuals the satisfaction of having thwarted my efforts. These men are to me nothing more than microbes of a nasty disease. My project was retarded by laws of nature. The world was not prepared for it. It was too far ahead of time, but the same laws will prevail in the end and make it a triumphal success.
This law … defines the limits of competition in the community of life. You may compete to the full extent of your capabilities, but you may not hunt down your competitors or destroy their food or deny them access to food. In other words, you may compete but you may not wage war.
Let no act be done without purpose.
We often think of choice as a thing. But a choice is not a thing. Our options may be things, but a choice—a choice is an action. It is not just something we have but something we do.
Faith is a mockery if it does not teach us that we can build a more complete and beautiful world.
Do not grieve over someone who changes all of the sudden. It might be that he has given up acting and returned to his true self.
The collapse of good conscience and the absence of accountability and public scrutiny have led to crimes against humanity and violations of international law.
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