Benjamin Franklin was one of the most famous and important participants in the American Revolution of the 1760’s to 1780’s. Like 55 other important political figures of that time, he was a delegate of the Continental Congress who signed the Declaration of Independence. He is the author of many valuable maxims that are used in everyday conversations still today. Without doubt – Franklin is one of the first celebrities and most remembered political figures in US history. He had an enormous impact on the new American self-confidence and, even more important, the American way of life. But when looking at his Autobiography, many people argue that it does not include any reference to his achievements for society. In contrast, it is stated that these works seem to be revolving only around the events that had a purpose for him personally. Is Franklin a mere egoist or someone who cares about others, too?
The first evidence of Franklin mentioning aid to others in the Autobiography is assistance to the “Tallow-Chandler and Soap-Boiler” (Franklin, 542) job of his father. Like all children in the 18th century he is involved in work for the family. This is not surprising, yet. Besides, he learns in his childhood, that “nothing was useful which was not honest” (Franklin, 543). If we look at honesty as a part of respecting and also helping people, Franklin therefore must have been taught mature behavior at an early age. His working career starts when he is still a kid. Franklin’s inclinations are to become a printer. From the age of 12 on, he does an apprenticeship at his brother’s business. Franklin tells us about his time there: “In a little time I made great proficiency in the Business, and became a useful hand to my Brother” (Franklin, 545). O nce again, it is not only pure self- interest that makes a difference in his life. This is even more evident by the fact that he obviously wrote his Autobiography many years later; still, he regards have taken the advices of his family members for granted, too.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Benjamin Franklin's Autobiography - The work of a selfish man?
- The First Evidence of Franklin Mentioning Aid to Others
- Franklin's Working Career Starts as a Kid
- Franklin as Someone Who Just Helps People or Accepts the Help and Support of Others
- Franklin Does Something for Others Without Personal Profit
- Franklin's Time in London
- Franklin's Account of His Early Years Ends
- Franklin Forms a Club, Called the "Junto"
- Franklin Publishes a Pamphlet Demanding the Issue of a Paper Currency
- A Very Important Passage That Says a Lot About Franklin's Ideals
- One Last Example of Franklin's Goodwill for the Common People
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This text examines Benjamin Franklin's Autobiography to determine whether he is a selfish person, focusing on his actions and motivations throughout his life. The text explores Franklin's early life and career, highlighting moments where he demonstrates both self-interest and concern for others.
- Benjamin Franklin's character and motivations
- Franklin's early life and work experiences
- Franklin's contributions to society
- Franklin's perspective on honesty and helping others
- The influence of Franklin's Autobiography on others
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- The text begins by examining the evidence of Franklin's aid to others in his Autobiography. It highlights his involvement in his father's business and his early lessons about honesty. It also mentions his apprenticeship at his brother's printing business, emphasizing his willingness to be "a useful hand" despite his self-interest.
- Further evidence of Franklin's helpfulness is presented through various anecdotes. These include saving a drunken Dutchman from drowning, providing financial support to his struggling friend Collins, and attempting to convince his co-workers in London to prioritize health over alcohol consumption.
- The text explores Franklin's transition to Philadelphia and the formation of the Junto club. It focuses on the club's purpose of "mutual Improvement," emphasizing Franklin's commitment to a collaborative environment rather than solely focusing on self-gain.
- The text discusses Franklin's advocacy for the issuance of paper currency during a period of economic hardship in Philadelphia. His efforts to address a public need, despite potential criticism from wealthy individuals, showcase his concern for the common good.
- A letter from Benjamin Vaughan, included in the second part of the Autobiography, provides a different perspective on Franklin's character. Vaughan highlights the potential impact of Franklin's writings on inspiring others to live meaningful lives.
- The text concludes by presenting an example of Franklin's public service in the form of his advocacy for fire safety in Philadelphia. His initiative to address fire hazards through a public pamphlet and the subsequent formation of a fire company underscores his dedication to public welfare.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The text delves into the complex nature of Benjamin Franklin's character, examining his self-interest, his motivations for helping others, and his contributions to society. The text focuses on key concepts such as honesty, self-improvement, social responsibility, and the role of public service in Franklin's life. It analyzes various episodes from his Autobiography to shed light on his actions and their implications for his character.
- Quote paper
- Moritz Oehl (Author), 2002, Benjamin Franklin's Autobiography. The work of a selfish man?, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/33147
