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The conflict that exists today is no more than an old-style struggle for power, once again presented to mankind in semireligious trappings. The difference is that, this time, the development of atomic power has imbued the struggle with a ghostly character; for both parties know and admit that, should the quarrel deteriorate into actual war, mankind is doomed.
Albert Einstein
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote reflects on the dangerous nature of power struggles, particularly in the context of nuclear weapons.

In this quote, Albert Einstein expresses concern over contemporary conflicts being fundamentally rooted in the age-old quest for power, now complicated by the presence of atomic weapons. He emphasizes that this modern struggle is not merely a political or military contest, but also carries profound existential implications, as both sides recognize that a war involving such destructive power could lead to the end of humanity itself.

Themes

ConflictPowerNuclearWarHumanity

In practice

Example use cases

This quote could be used in a speech about disarmament and the importance of peace.

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Quote by Albert Einstein | QuoteProject