In matters concerning truth and justice there can be no distinction between big problems and small; for the general principles which determine the conduct of men are indivisible. Whoever is careless with truth in small matters cannot be trusted in important affairs.

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Source: (1955) as quoted in Albert Einstein: Historical and Cultural Perspectives (1997) ed. Gerald Holton, Yehuda Elkana, p. 388, from The Centennial Symposium in Jerusalem (1979)

About this quote

This source-reviewed Einstein quotation develops a complete idea around matters, concerning, truth. The wording "In matters concerning truth and justice there can be no…" is tied to (1955) as quoted in Albert Einstein: Historical and Cultural Perspectives (1997) ed. Gera…, so readers can connect its themes of science and honesty to a documented context rather than a detached slogan.

When to use it

  • Use "In matters concerning truth and justice there can be no…" in a science discussion, then ask which concrete claim the wording makes.
  • Compare its treatment of matters with concerning in a lesson, essay, or editorial note before drawing a conclusion.
  • When publishing or narrating it, retain the documented source trail to (1955) as quoted in Albert Einstein: Historical and Cultural Perspectives (1997) ed. Gera… so the quotation stays connected to its original context.