If I were not a Jew I would be a Quaker.
Interpretation
Einstein expresses admiration for Quaker values, highlighting the importance of peace and ethics in living.
In this quote, Einstein conveys a deep respect for the Quaker faith and its principles, particularly its commitment to peace and social justice. By stating that he would choose to be a Quaker if he were not a Jew, he emphasizes the moral and ethical values that both faiths share, reflecting his belief in the significance of compassion and solidarity in human existence.
In practice
In a speech about tolerance and understanding among different faiths.
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.
I knew that the moment the great governing spirit strikes the blow to divide all humanity into just two opposing factions, I would be on the side of the common people.
How is God's name hallowed among us? When both our doctrine and living are truly Christian.
I think that is the big danger in keeping a diary: you exaggerate everything.
The intellectual tradition is one of servility to power, and if I didn't betray it I'd be ashamed of myself.
Since survival is the sine qua non, I now define the "moral behavior" as "behavior that tends toward survival".
I cannot be angry at God, in whom I do not believe.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.