To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
[T]he more public provisions were made for the poor, the less they provided for themselves, and of course became poorer . . . [taking] away from before their eyes the greatest of all inducements to industry, frugality, and sobriety, by giving them a dependence of somewhat else than a careful accumulation during youth and health for support in age and sickness.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Public support for the poor can diminish their self-reliance and motivation to improve their circumstances.
This quote by Benjamin Franklin suggests that when the state or society provides too much support to the poor, it can lead to a decrease in their personal initiative and responsibility. Franklin argues that the incentives to work hard and save for the future diminish when individuals can rely on public assistance, ultimately resulting in a cycle of poverty and dependence rather than empowerment and self-sufficiency.
Themes
PovertyIndependenceSelf-RelianceMotivationWork Ethic
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about welfare programs, one might reference this quote to argue for personal responsibility.
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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