“The development during the present century is characterized by two theoretical systems essentially independent of each other: the theory of relativity and the quantum theory. The two systems do not directly contradict each other; but they seem little adapted to fusion into one unified theory.”
Share this quote
Probable attribution
A source trail connects this quotation to Albert Einstein and "The Fundamentals of Theoretical Physics," (1940) as quoted in Out of My Later Years (1976), but the exact English wording has not been confirmed in a primary text. The attribution is therefore probable rather than definitive.
Likely origin: "The Fundamentals of Theoretical Physics," (1940) as quoted in Out of My Later Years (1976)
Review the attribution sourceAbout this quote
This page records the wording "The development during the present century is characterized by two…," which centers on development, during, present. A concrete trail points toward Einstein, but the exact English form remains unconfirmed; the page therefore labels it as attributed to him while preserving its science and wisdom context.
When to use it
- Use "The development during the present century is characterized by two…" in a science discussion, then ask which concrete claim the wording makes.
- Compare its treatment of development with during in a lesson, essay, or editorial note before drawing a conclusion.
- Before sharing it as Einstein's exact words, display the attribution caveat and follow the evidence link recorded on the page.