Question

"human beings in their thinking, feeling and acting are not free but are as casually bound as the stars in thier motions." -Albert Einstein

ok i was wondering what this means...maybe that humans follow a certain path of the people before them? idk please help
thanks

Answer 1

First, the word is "causally," not "casually."

The meaning of this quote has been widely debated. It seems that Einstein believed that we are predetermined to act and think in certain ways -- whether by God, innate human nature, or others, isn't clear. Check these sites for other opinions.

http://aloneonalimb.blogspot.com/2007/04/how-did-einstein-become-einstein.html

http://latviansonline.com/index.php/forum/viewthread/32693/

http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1607298-3,00.html

Answer 2

thanks
but i was trying to apply it to the war on terrorism and the different ways people think about it.... So maybe i can say that some people beleive that God knew this would happen and he has already put out a plan to end/not end the war??
idk im soo tongue tied

Answer 3

I don't think Einstein would go that far -- especially about God having a plan to end or not end the war.

However, you might argue that terrorists don't act from free will but they commit their terrorist acts because they are bound by their religion, upbringing, and personalities to try to defeat their enemies.

Answer 4

o ok i see
going for the other sides point of view
hmmm....
i like it thanks
love this program!!