Benjamin Franklin Quotes

Benjamin Franklin was an American polymath, inventor, writer, and statesman. With his contributions to science, literature, and politics, he made a significant impact in multiple fields, playing a key role in the American Revolution and becoming one of the Founding Fathers of the United States.

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This quote playfully suggests that men are often motivated or saved from undesirable situations not by their faith in something but rather by their desire or lack thereof.

Half a truth is often a great lie.... -Benjamin Franklin
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This quote suggests that presenting only a partial or incomplete truth can be as misleading and deceptive as a deliberate falsehood. It highlights the manipulative nature of distorting or omitting information, underscoring the importance of honesty and integrity in communication.

Fatigue is the best pillow.... -Benjamin Franklin
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This quote implies that when one is tired, sleep is the best remedy or relief. It humorously suggests that fatigue is a powerful force that can overcome other distractions, ultimately leading to rest and rejuvenation.

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This quote implies that individuals who are proficient at creating excuses or justifications for their actions or lack of action tend to be unreliable or ineffectual in other areas of their lives. It suggests that making excuses is indicative of a lack of accountability or commitment.

Honesty is the best policy.... -Benjamin Franklin
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This well-known adage conveys the idea that truthfulness and sincerity are essential virtues. It implies that honesty in one's actions and interactions fosters trust, integrity, and respect, and is preferable to deception or deceit in any situation.

A penny saved is a penny earned.... -Benjamin Franklin
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This quote presents the perspective that war can never be truly "good" in itself, and peace should not be classified as inherently "bad" or undesirable. It suggests that the absence of war does not necessarily equate to a negative or unfavorable state of affairs.

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This quote draws a parallel between the fragility of a large empire and a cake. It suggests that the greatest vulnerabilities or weaknesses of a powerful entity lie at its periphery or edges. It implies that maintaining control and stability becomes increasingly challenging as an empire expands, highlighting the potential for decline or collapse.

Necessity never made a good bargain.... -Benjamin Franklin
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The quote suggests that making good or favorable deals or agreements requires more than just the pressure of necessity. It implies that favorable outcomes are achieved through skill, negotiation, and strategic thinking, rather than solely through desperation.

Time is money.... -Benjamin Franklin
He that lives upon hope will die fasting.... -Benjamin Franklin
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The quote warns about the potential consequences of relying solely on hope without taking action. It implies that merely sustaining oneself on hope, without tangible efforts or progress, will lead to unfulfilled desires or starvation, metaphorically speaking.

When in doubt, don't.... -Benjamin Franklin
The doors of wisdom are never shut.... -Benjamin Franklin
Applause waits on success.... -Benjamin Franklin
You may delay, but time will not.... -Benjamin Franklin
Whatever is begun in anger ends in shame.... -Benjamin Franklin
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This quote expresses the belief that resistance or defiance against oppressive or tyrannical rulers is viewed as an act of obedience or loyalty to God's higher principles or divine justice.

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This quote suggests that all wars are foolish and have detrimental consequences. It emphasizes the high cost, both financially and in terms of human suffering, associated with warfare. It implies that the outcomes of wars rarely justify the damage and loss incurred.