Einstein's essay for the Aarau school,
written in French.
My plans for the future.
A happy man is too content with the present to
think much about the future. On the other hand it is young people
above all who like to occupy themselves with bold plans.... If
I should have the good fortune to pass my examinations, I would
go to the Zürich polytechnical school. I would stay there
for four years in order to study mathematics and physics. I see
myself becoming a teacher in these branches of the natural sciences,
choosing the theoretical part of these sciences.
Here are the reasons that led me to this plan. Above
all it is my individual disposition for abstract and mathematical
thought... And then there is a certain independence in the scientific
profession which greatly pleases me.
|