Some, to make themselves considerable, pursue learning; others grasp at wealth; some aim at being thought witty; and others are only careful to make the most of an handsome person: but what is wit, or wealth, or form, or learning, when compared with virtue?
Franklin compares various pursuits like wealth and wit to the greater value of virtue.
Share
More from Benjamin Franklin
Believing therefore, that it is my duty, I shall honestly speak my mind in the following paper.
You are a member of that parliament, and have formed part of that majority, which has condemned my native country to destruction.
I have seen generations born, flourish, and expire.
We are obliged to carry a great part of our produce directly to Britain; and where the duties laid upon it lessen its price to the planter, or it sells for less than it would in foreign markets, the difference is a tax paid to Britain.
Other voices in this conversation
