When the number of factors coming into play in a phenomenological complex is too large scientific method in most cases fails. One need only think of the weather, in which case the prediction even for a few days ahead is impossible. Nevertheless, no one doubts that we are confronted with a causal connection whose causal components are in the main known to us. Occurrences in this domain are beyond the reach of exact prediction because of the variety of factors in operation, not because of any lack of order in nature.

The release of atomic power has changed everything except our way of thinking ... the solution to this problem lies in the heart of mankind. If only I had known, I should have become a watchmaker. (1945)

Politics is a pendulum whose swings between anarchy and tyranny are fueled by perennially rejuvenated illusions.

The most powerful force in the world is compound interest.

The difference between what the most and the least learned people know is inexpressibly trivial in relation to that which is unknown.

All I want to do is learn to think like God. All the rest is just details.

I like the Swiss because by and large they are more humane than the other people aming whom I have lived.