To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
He who would trade liberty for some temporary security, deserves neither liberty nor security.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Prioritizing temporary safety over essential freedoms is misguided.
This quote by Benjamin Franklin emphasizes the dangers of sacrificing fundamental liberties in exchange for short-term security. It suggests that true value lies in the preservation of oneβs freedoms, and that those who willingly discard these for a false sense of safety ultimately undermine both their liberty and security.
Themes
LibertySecurityFreedomPhilosophySacrifice
In practice
Example use cases
During a debate on civil liberties, one might refer to this quote to argue against excessive surveillance.
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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The pencil of the Holy Ghost hath labored more in describing the afflictions of Job than the felicities of Solomon.
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Right from the moment of our birth, we are under the care and kindness of our parents, and then later on in our life when we are oppressed by sickness and become old, we are again dependent on the kindness of others. Since at the beginning and end of our lives we are so dependent on other's kindness, how can it be in the middle that we would neglect kindness towards others?
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'When I use a word,' Humpty Dumpty said in rather a scornful tone, 'it means just what I choose it to mean - neither more nor less.'
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