“It is my express wish that in awarding the prizes no consideration be given to the nationality of the candidates, but that the most worthy shall receive the prize, whether he be Scandinavian or not.”
- October 21, 1833 – December 10, 1896
- Born in Sweden
- Inventor, chemist, businessman
- Invented dynamite and established the Nobel Prize
Quote
“It is my express wish that in awarding the prizes no consideration be given to the nationality of the candidates, but that the most worthy shall receive the prize, whether he be Scandinavian or not.”
Explanation
This statement reflects Alfred Nobel’s commitment to fairness, meritocracy, and the universal nature of human achievement. Nobel sought to ensure that the prizes bearing his name would transcend nationalistic biases and recognize individuals purely based on their contributions to humanity. His insistence on ignoring nationality highlights his vision of the Nobel Prizes as an instrument for promoting global cooperation and excellence.
Historically, this perspective was significant in the late 19th century, a time when nationalism was a powerful force in Europe. By explicitly rejecting national favoritism, Nobel challenged the prevailing norms of his era, advocating for a more inclusive and equitable approach to recognizing outstanding achievements in science, literature, and peace efforts. This principle has been integral to the enduring prestige and credibility of the Nobel Prizes.
In modern contexts, this idea resonates in debates about diversity and representation in global awards and institutions. Nobel’s insistence on impartiality serves as a reminder that true progress and innovation know no borders and that excellence should be celebrated irrespective of geographic or cultural origin. His words continue to inspire efforts to create systems that value merit above bias, fostering a world where contributions to humanity are recognized universally.
