To act intelligently in human affairs is only possible if an attempt is made to understand the thoughts, motives, and apprehensions of one’s opponent so fully that one can see the world through his eyes.

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Probable attribution

A source trail connects this quotation to Albert Einstein and Essays in Humanism, but the exact English wording has not been confirmed in a primary text. The attribution is therefore probable rather than definitive.

Likely origin: Essays in Humanism

About this quote

This page records the wording "To act intelligently in human affairs is only possible if…," which centers on intelligently, human, affairs. 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 education and life context.

When to use it

  • Use "To act intelligently in human affairs is only possible if…" in a education discussion, then ask which concrete claim the wording makes.
  • Compare its treatment of intelligently with human 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.