If my theory of relativity is proven successful, Germany will claim me as a German and France will declare me a citizen of the world. Should my theory prove untrue, France will say that I am a German, and Germany will declare that I am a Jew.

The foundation of morality should not be made dependent on myth nor tied to any authority lest doubt about the myth or about the legitimacy of the authority imperil the foundation of sound judgment and action.

A problem cannot be solved at the level of consciousness in which it occurs.

...Intelligence and character of the masses are incomparably lower than the intelligence and character of the few who produce something valuable for the community.

It would be better if you began to teach others only after you yourself have learned something.

I never think of the future. It comes soon enough. When visiting the U.S. from Germany for a winter academic stay.

It is just as important to make knowledge live and keep it alive as to solve specific problems.