Albert Einstein
German-born theoretical physicist and one of the most influential intellectual figures of the twentieth century. Born in 1879 in Ulm, he developed the theory of relativity, contributed to the development of quantum mechanics, and received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921 for his discovery of the photoelectric effect. Beyond his scientific work, he became a public figure of moral and spiritual reflection — on pacifism, civil rights, the nature of religious experience, and the intersection of science and spiritual wonder. His writings — especially Ideas and Opinions, The World as I See It, and Out of My Later Years — articulated a 'cosmic religion' grounded in awe at the rationality and beauty of the universe. He died in Princeton in 1955, and his quotations remain among the most-cited in English.
quotes in library
Quotes by Albert Einstein
105 quotes“In the realm of the seekers of truth, there is no human authority.”
“He who attempts to play the magistrate is wrecked.”
“It is in the realm of mathematics, even more than in physics, that the imagination of the artist takes flight.”
“Thank Heaven we are made not according to plans but according to chance.”
“Or so it appears.”
“In the universe, in the laws of nature, beauty is the deepest signature.”
“To the eye that sees, every detail of nature is a masterpiece.”
“It is only to the individual that a soul is given.”
“The great moral leaders of mankind have been individuals.”
“Beethoven created his music as an individual. So with the moral leader.”
“In the long view, only the moral law can compel obedience.”
“In every difficulty, an opportunity. In every opportunity, a difficulty.”
“To know is nothing at all. To imagine is everything.”
“In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.”
“Force always attracts men of low morality.”
“True genius is the ability to overcome force with patience.”
“The best way to cheer yourself up is to try to cheer somebody else up.”
“Wait, that was Mark Twain.”
“All meaningful and lasting change starts first in your imagination and then works its way out.”
Explore More Teachers
Discover wisdom from 500+ spiritual teachers across all traditions.
Browse All Teachers