The release of atomic power has changed everything except our way of thinking ... the solution to this problem lies in the heart of mankind. If only I had known, I should have become a watchmaker. (1945)
Interpretation
Einstein suggests that while technology has advanced, human thought and morality have not kept pace with these changes.
In this quote, Albert Einstein reflects on the profound implications of the discovery of atomic power, emphasizing that despite the revolutionary changes in technology, humanity's way of thinking and ethical considerations remain largely unchanged. He implies that the real challenges lie within human nature and its ability to handle the consequences of its own inventions responsibly. The reference to wanting to become a watchmaker indicates a desire for precision and craft over the chaotic and dangerous power of atomic energy.
In practice
In a discussion about technological advancements and their ethical implications, one could say, 'As Einstein pointed out, the release of atomic power has changed everything except our way of thinking.'
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.
Now, we occupy a lowly position, both in space and rank in comparison with the heavenly sphere, and the Almighty is Most High not in space, but with respect to absolute existence, greatness and power.
We are product of neither nature nor nurture; we are a product of choice, because there is always a space between stimulus and response. As we wisely exercise our power to choose based on principles, the space will become larger.
When you meet with opposition, even if it should be from your husband or your children, endeavor to overcome it by argument and not by authority, for a victory dependent upon authority is unreal and illusory.
I came to the Greeks early, and I found answers in them. Greece's great men let all their acts turn on the immortality of the soul. We don't really act as if we believed in the soul's immortality and that's why we are where we are today.
Discretion is nothing other than the sense of justice with respect to the sphere of the intimate contents of life.
To say that a man lieth, is as much to say, as that he is brave towards God, and a coward towards men.
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