How Dr. Albert Einstein reconciles his Zionism with his internationalism is described in an interview granted to Philip A. Adler of Detroit, who cabled his interview to the “Detroit News” as follows:
“What do you think about the nationalistic tendencies which are now sweeping the world?”
“Nationalism is the curse of mankind,” Dr. Einstein replied.
“But you yourself are a nationalist?”
“Who, I?”
“Yes. you are a Zionist?”
“Ach, ja. But this is quite different. The nationalism of many a modern state stands for an extension of its power through territorial aggrandizement and through the subjectivity of smaller nationalities. Zionism is the opposition to that force. It is a defensive nationalism. I mean not only Zionism but all the movements for independence and self determination by oppressed peoples.
“Let me illustrate. I am a pacifist. I am opposed to the use of force. But I know that some lawless elements will use force, so I, a pacifist, consent to arm certain people in order to oppose the lawlessness of others.
“Let me formulate it for you this way. Because of the nationalistic tendencies of the powers opposed to me I am compelled to adapt a protective nationalism.”
As the Year Turns, Support the Journalism You Trust. JTA covers the stories shaping Jewish life around the world — with the depth this moment calls for. As you reflect on the year ahead, consider a gift that keeps independent Jewish journalism strong.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
