Ben Franklin A Man Of Virtue
Ben Franklin, A Man Of Virtue
Besides being one of America’s greatest leaders and examples Ben Franklin was more than that, he was an idealist. The greatest and most interesting example is found in his rules to live by or 13 virtues. In this day and age, and quite possibly in that one, it is very refreshing to hear about a man who wants to live life by following a code of honor.
Topics like Temperance, Frugality, Chastity, and Humility are all values that have become increasingly less visible in today’s society and Ben Franklin has given us this memoir not only as a record of his life, but as a reminder of what we should be striving for.
Although his goal of “moral perfection” seems idealistic and impossible the mere fact that this was his ambition is commendable. An attempt at being a decent person seems almost humorous in this day and age. Our own President’s have even been accepted for their lack of restraint with sexual appetites. Modern society seems to value more money and possessions; the “American Dream” is based on this materialistic principal. According to his 13 virtues, Ben Franklin would not support this tendency for consumption and I think that is to be commended.
He demonstrated this with his actions such as improving the streets, the refusal of patenting his pot bellied stove and simply giving it to the people, an act that would have made him financially well off. His good will towards his fellow man seems almost inconceivable, his example is one that should reflect what America can and should be.