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If I would be a young man again and had to decide how to make my living, I would not try to become a scientist or scholar or teacher. I would rather choose to be a plumber or a peddler in hope to find that modest degree of independence still available under present circumstances.
Albert Einstein
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote suggests that practical professions may offer more independence and fulfillment than traditional academic roles.

Albert Einstein reflects on his life choices, implying that if he had the chance to start over as a young man, he would opt for a more hands-on, independent profession like plumbing or peddling rather than pursuing a career in science, scholarship, or teaching. This highlights the value he places on personal independence and practical skill in a world where traditional paths may not secure happiness or freedom.

Themes

IndependencePracticalityProfessionChoiceHappiness

In practice

Example use cases

This quote could be used in a graduation speech to inspire students to consider various paths.

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If I would follow your advice and Jesus could perceive it, he, as a Jewish teacher, surely would not approve of such behavior.
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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.
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