More Background

     Thinking without boundaries, and on such an intellectually rich level, led Einstein to develop his world-renowned scientific theories. His intelligence level and complex imagination helped him form his theory of relativity. This theory is a combination of two sub-theories: special relativity and general relativity.The theory of relativity is a mathematical approach to understanding space and time and how objects move within this continuum. The Global Positioning System, more commonly known as GPS, is a long-term benefit of basic physics. Without Einstein, landing a plane in bad weather conditions would be next to impossible. In 1921, Einstein was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for his work on quantum theory. From about 1905-1923, he was one of the only physicists to take seriously the idea of photons and light energy. Following his acknowledgement, came strong opposition from Einstein towards other scientists furthering his research. He was strongly opposed to newer versions of quantum mechanics proposed by Heisenberg and Schroedinger.Ironically, the theory Einstein shined light upon, became his strongest source of opposition and frustration.

     Over the years Einsteins ethical views changed drastically as world events unfolded. In the 1920's and 1930's Einstein became increasingly involved in international affairs and politics. He was a strong supporter of Zionism, although mainly cultural rather than national. He was a “militant pacifist” during and following Word War I. He opposed nationalism and was committed to the idea of a single world government without any need for armed forces. In the 1920's Einstein was involved in many peace movements and wrote papers on international peace and disarmament. When Hitlers National Socialist party came to power in Germany in 1933, his stance on pacifism quickly began to change. This change especially took place when the Nazi's began targeting him in their anti-Semitic propaganda. Einstein promptly resigned from the Prussian Academy of Sciences, moved to the United States, and took a teaching position at the Institute for Advanced study at Princeton University. Einstein further separated himself from pacifist ideals as World War II broke out. He participated in the war effort by working for the US Navy and in 1939 even wrote a letter to President Roosevelt urging him to speed up the nation's nuclear weaponry program. Although a big proponent of the nuclear arms program he never advocated dropping the atomic bombs on Japan. He worked in a campaign for nuclear disarmament and international peace up until his death in 1955.

        While growing up Albert Einstein's rate of maturity in speech was much slower than his intellectual development. This caused him to formulate thoughts on a much more complex level. It helped him develop the theories that still resonate in our everyday lives. Einstein is most known for his theory of relativity but received a Nobel Prize in Physics for his work on quantum theory. Einstein was also known for his ethical views and was heavily involved in the support of religion, international peace, and disarmament. Einstein and his ground breaking theories paved the way for the science world as a whole, and because of him the 20th century has continuously reaped the benefits.


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