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History will also give occasion to expatiate on the advantage of civil orders and constitutions; how men and their properties are protected by joining in societies and establishing government; their industry encouraged and rewarded, arts invented, and life made more comfortable; the advantages of liberty, mischiefs of licentiousness, benefits arising from good laws and a due execution of justice. Thus may the first principles of sound politics be fixed in the minds of youth.
Benjamin Franklin
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote emphasizes the importance of civil order and government in protecting individuals and fostering society.

Benjamin Franklin highlights how organized societies and governments provide fundamental protections for people and their properties. He argues that through civil laws and justice, individuals can enjoy the benefits of liberty while avoiding chaos. Franklin calls for teaching these principles of governance to the youth to foster a well-ordered and prosperous society.

Themes

Civil OrderGovernmentSocietyLibertyJusticePolitics

In practice

Example use cases

During a lecture on government structures, this quote can illustrate the necessity of laws for protecting citizens.

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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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