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I think it is ironic that as much as we like to prevent any sort of world war, we still strive to be the first to create a nuclear weapon. In Einstein’s letter to Roosevelt, he urges that we, the US, be in the forefront of attaining technology and key resources in securing a bomb. “Keep [Government Departments] informed of the further development, and put forward recommendations for Government action, giving particular attention to the problem of securing a supply of uranium ore for the United States.” And Einstein goes on to push the US in rushing the discovery of nuclear bombs with direct government involvement and funding. I believe this somewhat contradicts with his initial thoughts of how man goes to war because he has hate and anger deep down inside. Einstein offers only one answer: “Because man has within him a lust for hatred and destruction.” However, I would like to think that human beings are naturally good inside. We all know better than to kill each other, but I think the real explanation lies in Einstein’s letter itself. I feel every individual has a bit of greed inside him. This is what makes us competitive and strive to be better than the next man. And in the instance of conflict, the greed manifests into an instinct to be the first to attack. Of course, we are all content with mutual peace; however, there is a thought that lingers in the back of our minds, which taunts us that at any moment they could strike. Thus on a global level this competitiveness leads nations to develop nuclear powers. Seemingly harmless, the desire to be defensive and stack up on arms becomes the first step towards a full blown war. It’s almost like a hysteria phenomenon from “The Monsters are Due on Maple Street” where everyone becomes over-concerned about what others may be up to. In short, man’s competitive nature which is beneficial in survival can turn into an aggressive preemptive strike.