May 2013 Auction Ends Tuesday, May 21st, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/21/2013
Scarce and important Albert Einstein typed letter signed with physics content, specifically quantum mechanics. Letter in German, dated 10 June 1938, translates in part, ''Honorable Colleague: I have already written and told you why I have resolved not to write a foreword to your book. The distinction between real things, which must undergo certain process of idealistic guidance, and to which certain independent existence is credited, is evident in your solution attempt. This concept must serve a certain understanding which would balance the procedures within the organic and inorganic nature. I must, however reject the experiment because, in my view, the inorganic field's (quantum-theory) is already misleading. It is a certain double-principle which, in my view, resembles much more than a superficial explanation of the primitive and is fundamentally opposed to modern science. However, there exists presently a certain tendency toward a mystical view, which is being publicized in the popular scientific literature. I do not want anything to feed this tendency...[signed] A. Einstein''. Runs 2pp. on two delicate sheets of his personal blind-stamped stationery and measures 8.5'' x 11''. Toning and a staple puncture, else near fine. Lot also includes: (1) Photograph featuring Einstein seated in the center of a crowd of men outside the Norman Bridge Laboratory of Physics at Caltech, circa 1934. 10'' x 8'' glossy photo has Keystone backstamp. Typed caption slip mounted to verso; very good; (2) Card-style invitation to the UCLA memorial meeting held in Einstein's honor. 3pp. measures 4.25'' x 6.75''. Toning and surface abrasions to upper right of cover, else near fine; (3) Card-style program from the UCLA service, running 3pp. Measures 5.5'' x 8.5''. Creasing and a small tear to the right edge, else near fine; (4) Ticket admitting two to the service, measuring 3.5'' x 2''. Toning and paperclip imprint to right edge, else near fine; (5) 8'' x 10'' matte portrait photo of Dr. Stromberg, for whose book Einstein ended up writing the jacket blurb rather than the foreword. Toning and irregular edges, else near fine; (6) ''Emergent Energy'' booklet, containing Dr. Stromberg's article reprinted from ''The Journal of The Franklin Institute,'' Vol. 241, No. 5, May 1946. Runs 16pp. Measures 6.5'' x 9.5''. Toning and separation to covers from spine base, else near fine. Lot also includes a full translation of Einstein's letter.
Albert Einstein Typed Letter Signed on Quantum Theory -- ''...fundamentally opposed to modern science...a mystical view...is being publicized in the popular scientific literature...'' -- Scarce
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