To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Without freedom of thought, there can be no such thing as wisdom - and no such thing as public liberty without freedom of speech.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Wisdom requires the freedom to think freely, and public liberty relies on the freedom to express those thoughts.
This quote emphasizes the essential link between freedom of thought and wisdom, suggesting that the ability to think independently is crucial for acquiring knowledge and understanding. Additionally, it highlights that public liberty is fundamentally dependent on free speech, implying that a society cannot truly be free if individuals are not allowed to express their ideas and opinions openly.
Themes
FreedomWisdomThoughtSpeechLiberty
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the importance of free speech in a democratic society, you might quote this to emphasize your point.
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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To be a saint is to be a little out of one's mind, which is a very good thing to be a little out of from time to time. It is to live a life that is always giving itself away and yet is always full.
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