To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
He'll cheat without scruple, who can without fear.
Interpretation
What this quote means
People who are not afraid of consequences are likely to act immorally.
This quote emphasizes the idea that fear of repercussions often acts as a moral compass; those who are unafraid may be more prone to unethical behavior. Benjamin Franklin suggests that the absence of fear can lead individuals to cheat or act unscrupulously, as they feel no obligation to adhere to moral principles if they believe they won't face any consequences for their actions.
Themes
CheatingFearMoralityConsequencesEthics
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion on ethical leadership, one might quote this to emphasize the importance of accountability.
More from Benjamin Franklin
All quotes β[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
All highly competent people continually search for ways to keep learning, growing, and improving. They do that by asking WHY. After all, the person who knows HOW will always have a job, but the person who knows WHY will always be the boss.
Benjamin FranklinRead
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Writing is a political instrument.
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A nation can assume that the addition of the words "under God" to its pledge of allegiance gives evidence that its citizens actually believe in God whereas all it really proves is that they believe in "believing" in God
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The difference between a good life and a bad life is how well you walk through the fire
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