To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Indeed, when religious people quarrel about religion, or hungry people quarrel about victuals, it looks as if they had not much of either among them.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Conflict over fundamental needs or beliefs often indicates a lack of those very things.
Benjamin Franklin reflects on the nature of human disputes, suggesting that quarrels over vital issues—such as religion or food—signal a deficiency in understanding or fulfilling those needs. When individuals argue passionately, it may reveal their own insecurities or inadequacies regarding the very subjects they are debating, highlighting a deeper critique of human behavior.
Themes
ConflictNeedsUnderstandingReligionFood
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a debate about the reasons behind religious intolerance.
More from Benjamin Franklin
All quotes →He'll cheat without scruple, who can without fear.
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[E]very Man who comes among us, and takes up a piece of Land, becomes a Citizen, and by our Constitution has a Voice in Elections, and a share in the Government of the Country.
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Our Constitution is in actual operation; everything appears to promise that it will last; but in this world nothing is certain but death and taxes.
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Let honesty and industry be thy constant companions, and spend one penny less than thy clear gains; then shall thy pocket begin to thrive; creditors will not insult, nor want oppress, nor hungerness bite, nor nakedness freeze thee
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I think that a young state, like a young virgin, should modestly stay at home, and wait the application of suitors for an alliance with her; and not run about offering her amity to all the world; and hazarding their refusal. Our virgin is a jolly one; and tho at present not very rich, will in time be a great fortune, and where she has a favorable predisposition, it seems to me well worth cultivating.
Benjamin FranklinRead
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