Analysis
Extensive searches of Einstein's published works, lecture transcripts, and correspondence reveal no instance of this statement. The phrase first appeared in print in the 1970s, long after Einstein's death, and is often traced to secondary sources that cite it without primary evidence. Quote investigators and scholarly references label it a misattribution.
Background
Albert Einstein died in 1955, and the earliest known appearance of the quote dates to a 1972 newspaper column, long after his death. Similar wording appears in earlier jokes about “the universe and human stupidity,” but none are linked to Einstein. The pattern of attributing witty aphorisms to famous scientists is common, and this quote follows that trend.
Verdict summary
The quote is falsely attributed to Albert Einstein and has no verifiable source in his writings or recorded speeches.