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He who would trade liberty for some temporary security, deserves neither liberty nor security.
Benjamin Franklin
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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 one’s 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

To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
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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.
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