Quote by Albert Einstein
Knowledge of what is does not open the door directly to what should be. If one asks the whence derives the authority of fundamental ends, since they cannot be stated and justifed merely by reason, one can only answer: they exist in a healthy society as powerful traditions, which act upon the conduct and aspirations and judgements of the individuals; they are there, that is, as something living, without its being necessary to find justification for their existence. They come into being not through demonstration but through revelation, through the medium of powerful personalities. One must not attempt to justify them, but rather to sense their nature simply and clearly.
Summary
This quote suggests that knowledge of how things are in the world does not automatically dictate what should be or what is morally right. When it comes to fundamental ends or ethical principles, their authority cannot be solely reasoned or justified. Instead, they exist as powerful traditions within a healthy society, shaping the behavior, ambitions, and judgments of individuals. These principles have a living existence and do not require constant justification. They are not derived from logical demonstration but are revealed through the influence of influential personalities. The focus should be on understanding and sensing their nature, rather than trying to rationalize or defend them.
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