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Essays in Humanism
The great thinker reflects on such topics as nuclear weapons, world poverty, and international affairs in this Wall Street Journal bestseller. Nuclear proliferation, Zionism, and the global economy are just a few of the insightful and surprisingly prescient topics scientist Albert Einstein discusses in this volume of collected essays from between 1931 and 1950. Written with a clear voice and a thoughtful perspective on the effects of science, economics, and politics in daily life, Einstein’s essays provide an intriguing view inside the mind of a genius addressing the philosophical challenges presented during the turbulence of the Great Depression, the Second World War, and the dawn of the Cold War.This authorized ebook features rare photos and never-before-seen documents from the Albert Einstein Archives at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
182 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1950
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About the author
Albert Einstein
881 books9,648 followersSpecial and general theories of relativity of German-born American theoretical physicist Albert Einstein revolutionized modern thought on the nature of space and time and formed a base for the exploitation of atomic energy; he won a Nobel Prize of 1921 for his explanation of the photoelectric effect.
His paper of 1905 formed the basis of electronics. His first paper, also published in 1905, changed the world.
He completed his Philosophiae Doctor at the University of Zurich before 1909.
Einstein, a pacifist during World War I, stayed a firm proponent of social justice and responsibility.
Einstein thought that Newtonion mechanics no longer enough reconciled the laws of classical mechanics with those of the electromagnetic field. This thought led to the development. He recognized, however, that he ably also extended the principle to gravitational fields and with his subsequent theory of gravitation in 1916 published a paper. He continued to deal with problems of statistical mechanics and quantum theory, which led to his explanations of particle theory and the motion of molecules. He also investigated the thermal properties of light, which laid the foundation of the photon.
Best known for his mass–energy equivalence formula E = mc2, dubbed "the world's most famous equation," he received "for his services to theoretical physics, and especially for his discovery of the law of the photoelectric effect". The latter was pivotal in establishing quantum theory.
He visited the United States when Adolf Hitler came to power in 1933 and went not back to Germany. On the eve of World War II, he endorsed a letter, alerting Franklin Delano Roosevelt, president, to the potential development of "extremely powerful bombs of a new type" and recommending that the United States begin similar research. This recommendation eventually led to the Manhattan project. Einstein supported defending the Allied forces but largely denounced the idea of using the newly discovered nuclear fission as a weapon. Later, with Bertrand Russell–Einstein manifesto highlighted the danger of nuclear weapons.
After the rise of the Nazi party, Einstein made Princeton his permanent home as a citizen of United States in 1940. He chaired the emergency committee of atomic scientists, which organized to alert the public to the dangers of warfare.
At a symposium, he advised:
("Science, Philosophy and Religion, A Symposium," published by the Conference on Science, Philosophy and Religion in their Relation to the Democratic Way of Life, Inc., New York, 1941).
In a letter to philosopher Eric Gutkind, dated 3 January 1954, Einstein stated:
(The Guardian, "Childish superstition: Einstein's letter makes view of religion relatively clear," by James Randerson, May 13, 2008)
Great intellectual achievements and originality made the word "Einstein" synonymous with genius.
The institute for advanced study in Princeton, New Jersey, affiliated Einstein until his death in 1955.
More: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albert_E...
http://www.nobelprize.org/nobe
His paper of 1905 formed the basis of electronics. His first paper, also published in 1905, changed the world.
He completed his Philosophiae Doctor at the University of Zurich before 1909.
Einstein, a pacifist during World War I, stayed a firm proponent of social justice and responsibility.
Einstein thought that Newtonion mechanics no longer enough reconciled the laws of classical mechanics with those of the electromagnetic field. This thought led to the development. He recognized, however, that he ably also extended the principle to gravitational fields and with his subsequent theory of gravitation in 1916 published a paper. He continued to deal with problems of statistical mechanics and quantum theory, which led to his explanations of particle theory and the motion of molecules. He also investigated the thermal properties of light, which laid the foundation of the photon.
Best known for his mass–energy equivalence formula E = mc2, dubbed "the world's most famous equation," he received "for his services to theoretical physics, and especially for his discovery of the law of the photoelectric effect". The latter was pivotal in establishing quantum theory.
He visited the United States when Adolf Hitler came to power in 1933 and went not back to Germany. On the eve of World War II, he endorsed a letter, alerting Franklin Delano Roosevelt, president, to the potential development of "extremely powerful bombs of a new type" and recommending that the United States begin similar research. This recommendation eventually led to the Manhattan project. Einstein supported defending the Allied forces but largely denounced the idea of using the newly discovered nuclear fission as a weapon. Later, with Bertrand Russell–Einstein manifesto highlighted the danger of nuclear weapons.
After the rise of the Nazi party, Einstein made Princeton his permanent home as a citizen of United States in 1940. He chaired the emergency committee of atomic scientists, which organized to alert the public to the dangers of warfare.
At a symposium, he advised:
"In their struggle for the ethical good, teachers of religion must have the stature to give up the doctrine of a personal God, that is, give up that source of fear and hope which in the past placed such vast power in the hands of priests. In their labors they will have to avail themselves of those forces which are capable of cultivating the Good, the True, and the Beautiful in humanity itself. This is, to be sure a more difficult but an incomparably more worthy task... "
("Science, Philosophy and Religion, A Symposium," published by the Conference on Science, Philosophy and Religion in their Relation to the Democratic Way of Life, Inc., New York, 1941).
In a letter to philosopher Eric Gutkind, dated 3 January 1954, Einstein stated:
"The word god is for me nothing more than the expression and product of human weaknesses, the Bible a collection of honorable, but still primitive legends which are nevertheless pretty childish. No interpretation no matter how subtle can (for me) change this."
(The Guardian, "Childish superstition: Einstein's letter makes view of religion relatively clear," by James Randerson, May 13, 2008)
Great intellectual achievements and originality made the word "Einstein" synonymous with genius.
The institute for advanced study in Princeton, New Jersey, affiliated Einstein until his death in 1955.
More: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albert_E...
http://www.nobelprize.org/nobe
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
March 14, 2013
I won't claim to agree with many of the ideas that Einstein sets forth in this small collection of essays, but I will say that they were well laid-out and certainly provided fodder for deeper reflection. I think that everyone knows who Einstein is but like me, have spent little time getting to know Einstein. The internet is rife with supposed quotes from Einstein leaving people to wonder what Einstein actually said and thought. If this is you then I suppose this book will begin to help you resolve those questions as you get to know Einstein's political and moral convictions in a very clear and concise manner. Some of his thoughts were things I would have expected to read based on the little bit that I knew about him while others left me a little surprised and amused. Again, the arguments are well-laid out but they are not bulletproof and there are a few things he said which I felt expressed a naivety concerning human nature. Nevertheless, in the context of his own time and place in history they made sense. This is certainly a piece that reflects the era it was written in, yet many of the messages are relevant for the modern world.
Einstein was first and foremost a socialist and I am curious now to know how much of a backlash he felt about this in an era of the "McCarthy Kangaroo Trials." To my knowledge this did not have any serious repercussions even though I am not sure how he avoided it during the Cold War period. He thinks that socialism is the answer to economic disparity and believes that it is a step towards genuine progress. There is a marked difference in his generation vs. ours because many in our time reject the notion of progress while Einstein thought that it was attainable. Einstein thinks that human have contradictory elements to their nature that makes them self-centered while also socially dependent. He felt that it was the workers who created the goods and services and that these very people feel that they have been robbed by the capitalist who ultimately steals it and exploits for his own benefit. In addition to economic issues Einstein discusses the relationship between races in America and the benefits and woes that scientific development has upon society at large. While he understand that technology has the power transform society it also has a dark side that could result in catastrophic proportions.
A majority of the work has Einstein discussing the pertinence of a supranational organization that will ultimately trump the authority of individual nations. He does briefly acknowledge the danger of such a power but dismisses it because he feels that individual nations and the threat of war pose a much greater danger than a supranational group that overseas the governments of the world. Again, Einstein is living in the era of time where Russia and America are engaged in serious hostility. He urges America to be willing to move toward this existence citing that Russia will follow their lead once it is clear that America is not seeking to harm Russia but to live in world peace. There is an exchange written in this book between a Russian scientist and Einstein. The Russian resisted Einstein idea of a supranational organization citing that this would be a way that America seek to impose capitalism on the world at large. Einstein of course, was sympathetic to this because he himself did not believe in capitalism. However, he stands firmly for America and seems to have a favorable opinion of the nation that took him in and made him one of her own.
Einstein's greatest concern was the issue of the bomb and it becomes very clear that he feels that he has a sense of responsibility to insure that the bomb is not used. The creation of bomb he saw as necessary because he understood that this could have been developed and used by Germany during WWII, but he laments that it exists in the present and is essentially being used to create tensions as well as distrust throughout the world. This was one of the central reasons that he thought that a supranational organization needed to exist. Einstein thought that patriotism was very harmful and was something to government could use to advance their own agendas. Essentially, Einstein sees a world without class, social, or national distinctions. That does not mean that he thinks that there should be one language or culture yet he never actually explains how that it suppose to work. Culture itself is something that would need to be more homogeneous in order to relieve any and all tensions and this does not even account for tensions caused by religious interests. This is one of the reasons I suggested that there was some naivety on his part. He fails to take into account the force and power that culture plays upon individual groups and society at-large. His greatest fear is that the bomb will be used to eradicate some sector or all of humanity and perhaps he did not consider that the bomb is its own restrainer. That is, the threat of the bomb has been enough to deter it from being used through the cold war and into the modern period.
Einstein addresses a number of other less important issues that prove to shine a light on the soul of Einstein and give us a window into his thought life. Some of the articles are addresses about Scientists and friends who made a significant impact in his life and in the world. He discusses their research and sometimes expresses personal feelings or thoughts about the individual. As far as I could tell, each individual was someone who was already deceased at the time of the essay, and only some of them were people that Einstein actually knew. He also talks about the importance of the role played by Zionism in the Jewish community. He praised it as a powerful force in keeping the community together and keeping the Jewish people alive. He supported a return to the homeland but he did not necessarily support a Jewish nation and thought that if Jews did the right thing they would do their best to work together and co-exist peacefully with the Arabs who lived in Palestine. He saw the creation of the Jewish state as something that was detrimental and a step backwards in the development of humanity. This had to do less with the Jews and more to do with the fact that Einstein thought that the way to insure peace was to promote the idea of a global community and he saw individual nations as a deterrent to that process.
Overall, this book was well-worth reading. Many of the conclusions that Einstein reached were ideas that did not resonate with me. I am not a socialist, I do NOT believe in supranational organizations, I do believe in individual nations and the creation of the Jewish state in Palestine. However, I am not afraid to read an opposing opinion and give it some consideration. I think that Einstein had noble intentions and was looking at things from the angle of one who participated in the creation of the world's most dangerous invention. He lived in a different time, a different place, and had seen humanity at its best and its worst. I think we can all share Einstein's apprehension about the bomb and should recognize how important it is for nations to cooperate and make the world a safer place. Even now, our eyes have turned toward North Korea as they test their own nuclear power capabilities and we see the horrible possibilities that the bomb could release upon the future. Einstein had some good points that have to be taken into consideration. Again, this is a refreshing book with an interesting view point and agree or not one thing is certain: Einstein cannot be easily dismissed.
Einstein was first and foremost a socialist and I am curious now to know how much of a backlash he felt about this in an era of the "McCarthy Kangaroo Trials." To my knowledge this did not have any serious repercussions even though I am not sure how he avoided it during the Cold War period. He thinks that socialism is the answer to economic disparity and believes that it is a step towards genuine progress. There is a marked difference in his generation vs. ours because many in our time reject the notion of progress while Einstein thought that it was attainable. Einstein thinks that human have contradictory elements to their nature that makes them self-centered while also socially dependent. He felt that it was the workers who created the goods and services and that these very people feel that they have been robbed by the capitalist who ultimately steals it and exploits for his own benefit. In addition to economic issues Einstein discusses the relationship between races in America and the benefits and woes that scientific development has upon society at large. While he understand that technology has the power transform society it also has a dark side that could result in catastrophic proportions.
A majority of the work has Einstein discussing the pertinence of a supranational organization that will ultimately trump the authority of individual nations. He does briefly acknowledge the danger of such a power but dismisses it because he feels that individual nations and the threat of war pose a much greater danger than a supranational group that overseas the governments of the world. Again, Einstein is living in the era of time where Russia and America are engaged in serious hostility. He urges America to be willing to move toward this existence citing that Russia will follow their lead once it is clear that America is not seeking to harm Russia but to live in world peace. There is an exchange written in this book between a Russian scientist and Einstein. The Russian resisted Einstein idea of a supranational organization citing that this would be a way that America seek to impose capitalism on the world at large. Einstein of course, was sympathetic to this because he himself did not believe in capitalism. However, he stands firmly for America and seems to have a favorable opinion of the nation that took him in and made him one of her own.
Einstein's greatest concern was the issue of the bomb and it becomes very clear that he feels that he has a sense of responsibility to insure that the bomb is not used. The creation of bomb he saw as necessary because he understood that this could have been developed and used by Germany during WWII, but he laments that it exists in the present and is essentially being used to create tensions as well as distrust throughout the world. This was one of the central reasons that he thought that a supranational organization needed to exist. Einstein thought that patriotism was very harmful and was something to government could use to advance their own agendas. Essentially, Einstein sees a world without class, social, or national distinctions. That does not mean that he thinks that there should be one language or culture yet he never actually explains how that it suppose to work. Culture itself is something that would need to be more homogeneous in order to relieve any and all tensions and this does not even account for tensions caused by religious interests. This is one of the reasons I suggested that there was some naivety on his part. He fails to take into account the force and power that culture plays upon individual groups and society at-large. His greatest fear is that the bomb will be used to eradicate some sector or all of humanity and perhaps he did not consider that the bomb is its own restrainer. That is, the threat of the bomb has been enough to deter it from being used through the cold war and into the modern period.
Einstein addresses a number of other less important issues that prove to shine a light on the soul of Einstein and give us a window into his thought life. Some of the articles are addresses about Scientists and friends who made a significant impact in his life and in the world. He discusses their research and sometimes expresses personal feelings or thoughts about the individual. As far as I could tell, each individual was someone who was already deceased at the time of the essay, and only some of them were people that Einstein actually knew. He also talks about the importance of the role played by Zionism in the Jewish community. He praised it as a powerful force in keeping the community together and keeping the Jewish people alive. He supported a return to the homeland but he did not necessarily support a Jewish nation and thought that if Jews did the right thing they would do their best to work together and co-exist peacefully with the Arabs who lived in Palestine. He saw the creation of the Jewish state as something that was detrimental and a step backwards in the development of humanity. This had to do less with the Jews and more to do with the fact that Einstein thought that the way to insure peace was to promote the idea of a global community and he saw individual nations as a deterrent to that process.
Overall, this book was well-worth reading. Many of the conclusions that Einstein reached were ideas that did not resonate with me. I am not a socialist, I do NOT believe in supranational organizations, I do believe in individual nations and the creation of the Jewish state in Palestine. However, I am not afraid to read an opposing opinion and give it some consideration. I think that Einstein had noble intentions and was looking at things from the angle of one who participated in the creation of the world's most dangerous invention. He lived in a different time, a different place, and had seen humanity at its best and its worst. I think we can all share Einstein's apprehension about the bomb and should recognize how important it is for nations to cooperate and make the world a safer place. Even now, our eyes have turned toward North Korea as they test their own nuclear power capabilities and we see the horrible possibilities that the bomb could release upon the future. Einstein had some good points that have to be taken into consideration. Again, this is a refreshing book with an interesting view point and agree or not one thing is certain: Einstein cannot be easily dismissed.
September 28, 2019
El libro es un recopilatorio de frases y extractos de discursos de Einstein sin estructura aparente.
Pero permite ver sus diferentes facetas y anima a leer más sobre este hombre excepcional.
No me extraña que consiguiera convertirse en un icono del siglo XX a pesar de ser científico, con lo que eso aísla (cuando tendrían que ser nuestros héroes, no los conoce nadie). Es capaz de explicar conceptos complicados con una sencillez y economía de palabras envidiable, y su sentido del humor y su humanidad, aparte de su intelecto, lo hacen excepcional.
Recomendable como primer acercamiento a su enorme intelecto, pero creo imprescindible leer también la magnífica biografía escrita por Isaacson Einstein: His Life and Universe para ver su lado menos conocido y también menos admirable.
Pero permite ver sus diferentes facetas y anima a leer más sobre este hombre excepcional.
No me extraña que consiguiera convertirse en un icono del siglo XX a pesar de ser científico, con lo que eso aísla (cuando tendrían que ser nuestros héroes, no los conoce nadie). Es capaz de explicar conceptos complicados con una sencillez y economía de palabras envidiable, y su sentido del humor y su humanidad, aparte de su intelecto, lo hacen excepcional.
Recomendable como primer acercamiento a su enorme intelecto, pero creo imprescindible leer también la magnífica biografía escrita por Isaacson Einstein: His Life and Universe para ver su lado menos conocido y también menos admirable.
January 23, 2022
This book is a testament to the failure of modern public intellectuals(Scientists in particular) in engaging with serious socio -economic political issues of our times with such passion , clarity and deep commitment as Albert Einstein does in this book.
Identifying with the progressive ideology of Socialism as a force that can become alternative to Capitalism (which he often refers to as economic anarchy) by ending ruthless exploitation of workers, mindless competition that's destroying creativity & scientific temper and endangering peace of the world.
He talks on range of issues such as need for world government with UN being an organisation in the transitional phase to achieve permanent world peace , on nuclear weapons disarmament , Anti semitism and the need for Jewish homeland , on world war 2 and tributes /homage to various scientists & public figures of his time such as Marie Curie , Max Planck, Gandhi etc
The first part was fascinating where Albert Einstein engages in serious debate with Soviet scientists on the issue of world government. I should say , It ran like a thrilling back and forth with powerful arguments from both sides .
Although I don't agree with Einstein's idea his passion and clarity with which he comments of important issue of his time was something that stuck me deeply.
Identifying with the progressive ideology of Socialism as a force that can become alternative to Capitalism (which he often refers to as economic anarchy) by ending ruthless exploitation of workers, mindless competition that's destroying creativity & scientific temper and endangering peace of the world.
He talks on range of issues such as need for world government with UN being an organisation in the transitional phase to achieve permanent world peace , on nuclear weapons disarmament , Anti semitism and the need for Jewish homeland , on world war 2 and tributes /homage to various scientists & public figures of his time such as Marie Curie , Max Planck, Gandhi etc
The first part was fascinating where Albert Einstein engages in serious debate with Soviet scientists on the issue of world government. I should say , It ran like a thrilling back and forth with powerful arguments from both sides .
Although I don't agree with Einstein's idea his passion and clarity with which he comments of important issue of his time was something that stuck me deeply.
August 30, 2019
Einstein was a Centrist Da
January 7, 2013
Albert Einstein was no doubt a brilliant man. But that doesn't mean he was wise about everything. For example:
Having viewed the brutality of war he was anxious that it be prevented. He recommended a supranational military force that would keep the peace and once agreed upon the "guarantee against war of world-wide dimensions can be assured" But the problem with trying to suppress man's desire for power with a super organization is that the super organization is comprised of MEN WHO WILL WANT POWER!
He wrote that "One-sided armament of a national basis only heightens the general uncertainty and confusion without being an effective protection." Sorry Einstein, but that is just plain wrong. A superior military force, creditability used, is the best defense and best deterrent.
Here is another gem: "No doubt, the day will come when all nations (as far as such nations still exist) will be grateful to Russia for having demonstrated, for the first time, by vigorous action the practical possibility of planned economy in spite of exceeding great difficulties." Yeah, that worked out so well, didn't it?
He did write some things I agreed with. For example, "It is only men who are free, who create the inventions and intellectual works which to us moderns make life worth while."
Having viewed the brutality of war he was anxious that it be prevented. He recommended a supranational military force that would keep the peace and once agreed upon the "guarantee against war of world-wide dimensions can be assured" But the problem with trying to suppress man's desire for power with a super organization is that the super organization is comprised of MEN WHO WILL WANT POWER!
He wrote that "One-sided armament of a national basis only heightens the general uncertainty and confusion without being an effective protection." Sorry Einstein, but that is just plain wrong. A superior military force, creditability used, is the best defense and best deterrent.
Here is another gem: "No doubt, the day will come when all nations (as far as such nations still exist) will be grateful to Russia for having demonstrated, for the first time, by vigorous action the practical possibility of planned economy in spite of exceeding great difficulties." Yeah, that worked out so well, didn't it?
He did write some things I agreed with. For example, "It is only men who are free, who create the inventions and intellectual works which to us moderns make life worth while."
April 15, 2013
I didn't read all the essays that spanned at least a decade or more but got the general drift. The writing style is archaic (think German speaker writing in English in the 30s -40s) so it doesn't make for ease of reading and the message is repetitive and sometimes contradictory (Israel is a good thing, the Arabs should just get along).
There's also a sweet naïveté to his demand for a world government ala the UN... In fact most of his essays are naive, innocent longings for a better world.
There's also a sweet naïveté to his demand for a world government ala the UN... In fact most of his essays are naive, innocent longings for a better world.
February 14, 2018
So none of this was actually about humanism and the essays have no introduction or context included. Breakdown is roughly 50% saying why we should have a single world government, 25% memoriums to dead scientists, 25% discussing how great it is the jewish people now have the country Israel.
December 15, 2015
Interesante resumen de la personalidad de una de las mentes más brillantes de los tiempos modernos.
January 26, 2025
I found this one quite worthwhile because it introduced me to another facet of a man I admire greatly--the humanistic side of Einstein. This side can be easily overshadowed by Einstein's scientific accomplishments, but the essays, tributes and addresses gathered here help redress the balance. I gave the collection a rating of only three stars simply because its topical scope is rather limited. It consists mainly of pieces on the post-WWII need for a supranational government with teeth, of tributes to men and women (mostly scientists) recently deceased and to the plight of the Jews during and after the Holocaust. Because of this limited subject matter I found the collection somewhat repetitive. Surely, there were other essays on other topics that might have been included. Also, some of the tributes to scientists were clearly intended for the scientifically literate. I'm not a member of that group by any stretch! However, on the whole I enjoyed the book and recommend it to anyone desiring a glimpse into another side of a true mensch of mensches.
January 27, 2015
Really wasn't as impressed with this as much as I thought I would be; a good portion of the first half of the slim book is pretty repetitious, the essays covering the same subject matter in different framings (Not merely Humanism, but specific ideas about Humanism: IE: A world state as a judicial court, with the intent to do away with the need for war.) I found the idea overly idealistic, at best; not because I am against peace (A friend of Anais Nin acted upon doing something very similar in pronouncing himself a "Citizen of the world"), but because, as Nin's counterpart discovered: Governments by and large are filled with people who are in love with their own sense of power.
The 2nd part of the book covered memoriams written for friend's of Einstein's who had passed, and who had also fought for peace. There was some covering of world war II, and the beginning of building Palenstine, both which were interesting, as well as the diving in to both understand, and hopefully undo, prejudice. To me, these were the more worthwhile topics, but they didn't take up much room in the book.
I'd gauge it's worth a skim, and one should mark and read through the essays in full that interest them; but it is difficult for me to believe that the essays are, in fact, Einstein's best works. Were someone to ask me of what to read on the humanities, I'd still be more liable to tell them to read: Thoreau, Emerson, Nin's Diaries, and various other authors. Sadly, I'm not even sure this would make it as a recommendation on my list.
The 2nd part of the book covered memoriams written for friend's of Einstein's who had passed, and who had also fought for peace. There was some covering of world war II, and the beginning of building Palenstine, both which were interesting, as well as the diving in to both understand, and hopefully undo, prejudice. To me, these were the more worthwhile topics, but they didn't take up much room in the book.
I'd gauge it's worth a skim, and one should mark and read through the essays in full that interest them; but it is difficult for me to believe that the essays are, in fact, Einstein's best works. Were someone to ask me of what to read on the humanities, I'd still be more liable to tell them to read: Thoreau, Emerson, Nin's Diaries, and various other authors. Sadly, I'm not even sure this would make it as a recommendation on my list.
November 18, 2011
As one would expect when reading something by Einstein, this collection of essays was incredibly thought-provoking. Both for internal reflection, but also for how society as a whole moves towards a realistic passion for peace and security. Having been mostly familiar with his scientific work, I was amazed to see how active he was in writing about political and social concerns, and specifically, how much he advocated for a world organization much like the United Nations, but with more authority. I imagine that being involved in physics the way he was, and living right at the beginning of the atomic weapon age, plays a large part in his philosophies; but in so doing, we also get a rare glimpse into thought history in understanding how these events played on one of the great intellectual minds of the 20th century. It was also educational to read his tributes to fellow scientists such as Planck and Curie, for their historical context as well. Not every essay is earth shattering profound, but collectively they make one think, and provides a glimpse into the mind of a brilliant thinker.
January 7, 2018
I lived in solitude in the country and noticed how the monotony of a quiet life stimulates the creative mind.
Most people go on living their everyday life: half frightened, half indifferent, they behold the ghostly tragicomedy that is being performed on the international stage before the eyes and ears of the world.
Schools ought to be intent on presenting history from the point of view of progress and the growth of human civilization, rather than using it as a means for fostering in the minds of the growing generation the ideals of outward power and military successes.
The most important factor in giving shape to our human existence is the setting up and establishment of a goal; the goal being a community of free and happy human beings who by constant inward endeavor strive to liberate themselves from the inheritance of anti-social and destructive instincts. In this effort the intellect can be the most powerful aid. The fruits of intellectual effort, together with the striving itself, in cooperation with the creative activity of the artist, lend content and meaning to life.
Most people go on living their everyday life: half frightened, half indifferent, they behold the ghostly tragicomedy that is being performed on the international stage before the eyes and ears of the world.
Schools ought to be intent on presenting history from the point of view of progress and the growth of human civilization, rather than using it as a means for fostering in the minds of the growing generation the ideals of outward power and military successes.
The most important factor in giving shape to our human existence is the setting up and establishment of a goal; the goal being a community of free and happy human beings who by constant inward endeavor strive to liberate themselves from the inheritance of anti-social and destructive instincts. In this effort the intellect can be the most powerful aid. The fruits of intellectual effort, together with the striving itself, in cooperation with the creative activity of the artist, lend content and meaning to life.
December 9, 2013
This book gives hope to the necessary presence of humanism. Professor Einstein writes with clarity from an unassailable intelligence of heart, mind and soulful existence. The essays repeat over and over the characteristics of humanism. Central to its principles; is mindfulness of how one treats effects the whole.
Writing of our effortful attributes, he clarifies our most nurturing ideals, ideas, and behavior. Einstein writes of resolve chiefly. And the absolute necessity of intellectuals to maintain, and assert their influence, worth for the betterment of society as a whole. He calls out to Artists to never blanche. To not seek approval, but to do the work and assert your place as what it is: vital and worthy part of society.
He spans virtually every aspect of what he saw of a 1950 America, and arrives at its need to begin - in any way - the deeds of humanism: As a whole people, as part of a greater wholeness.
Writing of our effortful attributes, he clarifies our most nurturing ideals, ideas, and behavior. Einstein writes of resolve chiefly. And the absolute necessity of intellectuals to maintain, and assert their influence, worth for the betterment of society as a whole. He calls out to Artists to never blanche. To not seek approval, but to do the work and assert your place as what it is: vital and worthy part of society.
He spans virtually every aspect of what he saw of a 1950 America, and arrives at its need to begin - in any way - the deeds of humanism: As a whole people, as part of a greater wholeness.
April 13, 2014
a short collection of essays reiterating the importance of a global government. something very advanced for our humanity that it seems like a fantasy, but with the proper precautions and a set of guidelines that could control and provide world peace could work in the years to come.
einstein also explains the jewish state and how their race have impacted society as a whole, and also, stating that germans are evil people and should be punished. i never really thought of einstein as a person who would hold grudges.
i would recommend this book to anyone that likes to stay engaged in political advancement for society and the incorporation of intellectuals in the council who would develop that world government, according to mr. einstein.
einstein also explains the jewish state and how their race have impacted society as a whole, and also, stating that germans are evil people and should be punished. i never really thought of einstein as a person who would hold grudges.
i would recommend this book to anyone that likes to stay engaged in political advancement for society and the incorporation of intellectuals in the council who would develop that world government, according to mr. einstein.
January 18, 2018
I read this book with a grain of salt. By that I mean Albert Einstein was a genius in theoretical physics but although a very clear thinker he was just like you and I when it came to opinions regarding society, governments and people in general. I enjoyed the book and found some of his views compelling. I could not tell when the various articles were actually written or delivered but it was obvious that the majority were from the period after the conclusion of WW2 and the mid 50's. Einstein's advocacy for a one world supra-government and military is just one example of just how naive he was regarding people. Interesting book and perspective.
April 25, 2019
I’m really disappointed in myself for only giving Einstein’s essays 3 stars.
This is a collection of his thoughts on politics, the speeches he made for different memorials and monuments and other public speaking events, articles he had published in different magazines...
My favorite essays were his thoughts on the persecution of the Jewish people. That was fascinating.
It is an interesting read and you’ll get an idea of the kind of man he was.
I’m giving it 3 stars because I don’t find it recommendation worthy. (Unless you’re a bit of a nerd like me.) I don’t feel like I wasted my time reading it; it just felt like history homework and that is a bit of a bore.
This is a collection of his thoughts on politics, the speeches he made for different memorials and monuments and other public speaking events, articles he had published in different magazines...
My favorite essays were his thoughts on the persecution of the Jewish people. That was fascinating.
It is an interesting read and you’ll get an idea of the kind of man he was.
I’m giving it 3 stars because I don’t find it recommendation worthy. (Unless you’re a bit of a nerd like me.) I don’t feel like I wasted my time reading it; it just felt like history homework and that is a bit of a bore.
December 30, 2014
A very easy read coming from such a deep mind. Einstein���s remorse for helping to unleash the weapons that can seal our fate on a global scale came through loud and clear. He makes a strong case for his undying belief that the only way to avoid our eminent doom is the establishment of a supranational government that ensures government is managed on a global scale. A very thought provoking collection of essays still as relevant today as the day Einstein produced them.
May 17, 2018
Whilst I can appreciate some of the points Einstein aims to convey in this book, I can't help but feel I would enjoy reading the complex equations that led to the formulation of The Theory of Relativity a lot more than I enjoyed reading this collection of works. To look at the current state of world is to get an understanding of how fantastical some of the ideas he lobbied for are within the context of current geopolitical climate. Disappointed.
November 17, 2012
An exploration into the humanist side of one of our greatest physicists. As a collection, it works well. He explores a socialism, a singular world government and the hopes for a path to an end of military conquest, and the spirituality and tradition of Jewish ideals.
October 8, 2012
Political and social views remind me of Gene Roddenberry's.
December 30, 2012
Way over my head. This is a book I had to read for a short time and then sit back and think for a while. Encourages examination of personal worldviews.
October 29, 2012
Great,beware of racial opinions!!!
August 14, 2013
He was a genius but some ideologies I did not agree with. Even so, his ideas are interesting to read. It is good to keep an open mind.
February 9, 2016
I loved this collection of essays, Of course we all know of this man's genius in physics and mathematics, but what a gentle and loving and ambitious heart.
February 26, 2016
interesting collection of politics, obituaries, and a bit of science. I found this to be both dated and timely.
August 23, 2016
Very interesting read, insightful and with relevance still today although I don't agree with all his points, I would definitely like a world without war.
December 29, 2017
An interesting insight into one of the wisest minds of the last century. Einstein waxes philosophically on various topics of his time, Zionism, and his contemporaries.
April 14, 2018
Surprisingly poorly written and redundant. More political than the title would suggest. Made me wish he had stuck to Physics.
September 11, 2018
Interesting reading.
August 10, 2024
A COLLECTION OF BRIEF ESSAYS AND EULOGIES BY EINSTEIN
Don't be misled by the title, or the Preface by Corliss Lamont (prominent member of the American Humanist Association, and author of books such as 'The Philosophy of Humanism'), into thinking that this book contains Einstein's musings on the Humanist movement. This book of essays is "Humanist" only in the sense that Lamont says, "Einstein of course supported the Humanist position that human problems are best solved through the use of reason and scientific method. He never suggested supernatural aid."
This 1950 book contains 43 essays written by Einstein on a wide variety of subjects, such as: Why Socialism?; Towards a World Government; Science and Civilization; A Message to Intellectuals; Atomic War or Peace; The Menace of Mass Destruction; On Military Service; International Security; Mahatma Gandhi; Why Do They Hate the Jews?; The Goal of Human Existence; Our Debt to Zionism; The Calling of the Jews; The Jews of Israel, etc.
He wrote, "Science, however, cannot create ends and, even less, instill them in human beings; science, at most, can supply the means by which to attain certain ends." (Pg. 2) He suggests, "Man can find meaning in life, short and perilous as it is, only through devoting himself to society." (Pg. 5)
He observes, "Reason, of course, is weak, when measured against its never-ending task. Weak, indeed, compared with the follies and passions of mankind, which, we must admit, almost entirely control our human destinies, in great things and small. Yet the works of the understanding outlast the noisy bustling generations and spread light and warmth across the centuries." (Pg. 77)
He wrote of Gandhi, "A leader of his people, unsupported by any outward authority: a politician whose success rests ... simply on the convincing power of his personality; a victorious fighter who has always scorned the use of force; ... a man who has confronted the brutality of Europe with the dignity of the simple human being, and thus at all times risen superior. Generations to come, it may be, will scarce believe that such a one as this ever in flesh and blood walked upon this earth." (Pg. 94)
He summarizes, "The bond that has united the Jews for thousands of years and that unites them today is, above all, the democratic ideal of social justice, coupled with the ideal of mutual aid and tolerance among all men... The second characteristic of Jewish tradition is the high regard in which it holds every form of intellectual aspiration and spiritual effort." (Pg. 100) He adds in another essay, "To be a Jew... means first of all, to acknowledge and follow in practice those fundamentals in humaneness laid down in the Bible---fundamentals without which no sound and happy community of men can exist." (Pg. 109-110)
This is an excellent and diverse collection of short writings by Einstein.
Don't be misled by the title, or the Preface by Corliss Lamont (prominent member of the American Humanist Association, and author of books such as 'The Philosophy of Humanism'), into thinking that this book contains Einstein's musings on the Humanist movement. This book of essays is "Humanist" only in the sense that Lamont says, "Einstein of course supported the Humanist position that human problems are best solved through the use of reason and scientific method. He never suggested supernatural aid."
This 1950 book contains 43 essays written by Einstein on a wide variety of subjects, such as: Why Socialism?; Towards a World Government; Science and Civilization; A Message to Intellectuals; Atomic War or Peace; The Menace of Mass Destruction; On Military Service; International Security; Mahatma Gandhi; Why Do They Hate the Jews?; The Goal of Human Existence; Our Debt to Zionism; The Calling of the Jews; The Jews of Israel, etc.
He wrote, "Science, however, cannot create ends and, even less, instill them in human beings; science, at most, can supply the means by which to attain certain ends." (Pg. 2) He suggests, "Man can find meaning in life, short and perilous as it is, only through devoting himself to society." (Pg. 5)
He observes, "Reason, of course, is weak, when measured against its never-ending task. Weak, indeed, compared with the follies and passions of mankind, which, we must admit, almost entirely control our human destinies, in great things and small. Yet the works of the understanding outlast the noisy bustling generations and spread light and warmth across the centuries." (Pg. 77)
He wrote of Gandhi, "A leader of his people, unsupported by any outward authority: a politician whose success rests ... simply on the convincing power of his personality; a victorious fighter who has always scorned the use of force; ... a man who has confronted the brutality of Europe with the dignity of the simple human being, and thus at all times risen superior. Generations to come, it may be, will scarce believe that such a one as this ever in flesh and blood walked upon this earth." (Pg. 94)
He summarizes, "The bond that has united the Jews for thousands of years and that unites them today is, above all, the democratic ideal of social justice, coupled with the ideal of mutual aid and tolerance among all men... The second characteristic of Jewish tradition is the high regard in which it holds every form of intellectual aspiration and spiritual effort." (Pg. 100) He adds in another essay, "To be a Jew... means first of all, to acknowledge and follow in practice those fundamentals in humaneness laid down in the Bible---fundamentals without which no sound and happy community of men can exist." (Pg. 109-110)
This is an excellent and diverse collection of short writings by Einstein.
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