To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Necessity never made a good bargain.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Necessity can lead to poor decisions that are driven by desperation rather than reason.
This quote by Benjamin Franklin suggests that when people are faced with urgent needs or pressures, they often make hasty or unwise choices instead of negotiating or thinking carefully. It implies that decisions made out of necessity are seldom advantageous, emphasizing the value of patience and rational thinking in making agreements or choices.
Themes
NecessityBargainWisdomDecision-MakingPatience
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be shared in a discussion about negotiation strategies.
More from Benjamin Franklin
All quotes βHe'll cheat without scruple, who can without fear.
Benjamin FranklinRead
[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.
Benjamin FranklinRead
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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