To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Sell not virtue to purchase wealth, nor liberty to purchase power.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Do not sacrifice your morality or freedom for material gain or authority.
In this quote, Benjamin Franklin warns against the compromising of one's principles and liberties in pursuit of wealth and power. He emphasizes that true value lies in virtue and freedom, and that trading these essential qualities for superficial gains is a misguided choice that can lead to a loss of integrity and true happiness.
Themes
VirtueWealthLibertyPowerPrinciplesIntegrity
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about ethical business practices, one could quote Franklin to emphasize the importance of maintaining integrity over chasing profit.
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.
Benjamin FranklinRead
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
Benjamin FranklinRead
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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Type of the wise who soar but never roam, True to the kindred points of heaven and home.
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Time is generally the best doctor.
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My confidence is that there will for a long time be virtue and good sense enough in our countrymen to correct abuses.
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