Why must every individual and every nation tremble for their existence? Because each seeks his own wretched momentary advantage and refuses to subordinate it to the welfare and prosperity of the community.

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Probable attribution

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

Likely origin: Ideas and Opinions

About this quote

This page records the wording "Why must every individual and every nation tremble for their…," which centers on individual, nation, tremble. 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 wisdom and life context.

When to use it

  • Use "Why must every individual and every nation tremble for their…" in a wisdom discussion, then ask which concrete claim the wording makes.
  • Compare its treatment of individual with nation 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.