Einstein on the Atomic Bomb
The release of atomic energy has not created a new problem. It has merely made more urgent the necessity of solving an existing one. One could say that it has affected us quantitatively, not qualitatively. As long as there are sovereign nations possessing great power, war is inevitable. That statement is not an attempt to say when war will come, but only that it is sure to come. That fact was true before the atomic bomb was made. What has been changed is the destructiveness of war.
TL;DR
- The release of atomic energy has intensified the problem of war between sovereign nations, not created a new one.
- War is inevitable as long as sovereign nations possess great power; atomic bombs have only increased its destructiveness.
- Civilization could be restored even after a devastating atomic war, as some thinkers and books would survive.
- The secret of the atomic bomb should not be given to the United Nations or the Soviet Union.
- A World Government, founded by the USA, Soviet Union, and Great Britain, should control atomic energy and all military strength.
- The Soviet Union should be invited to help draft the constitution of the World Government to foster cooperation and reduce distrust.
- The World Government would have power over all military matters and the authority to intervene in countries where oppression leads to instability.
- The author fears the tyranny of a World Government but fears future wars even more.
- Delaying the establishment of World Government through gradual approaches only increases fear and suspicion, leading to war.
- The secret of atomic energy will not be held for long; other nations can develop it with materials and men.
- Albert Einstein considers his role in the release of atomic energy to be indirect and did not foresee its realization in his lifetime.
- Discoveries are made by free individuals, not organized corporations; however, scientists need freedom and proper working conditions.
- Atomic energy should remain under government control in the US because it was developed by the government.
- The constructive application of atomic energy is not yet possible for small-scale uses like cars or airplanes, and its boon to mankind may be far off.
- For now, atomic energy is a menace that may intimidate humanity into establishing international order.