Authority Quote by Albert Einstein
“Selection [of UN delegates] by governments cannot give the peoples of the world the feeling of being fairly and proportionately represented. The moral authority of the UN would be considerable enhanced if the delegates were elected directly by the people. Were they responsible to an electorate, they would have much more freedom to follow their consciences.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: United Nations Assembly, 1946
Direct election of UN delegates would increase legitimacy and moral authority by aligning representatives with popular will.
In simple terms: Electing UN delegates directly boosts legitimacy.
Promote direct election for global bodies.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- UN reform
- international elections
- citizen engagement
- policy advocacy
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How would direct elections change UN decision‑making?
- What safeguards ensure informed voting?
Implementation faces sovereign resistance and logistical challenges.