Franklins Plan essays

Franklins Plan essays Benjamin Franklin is known by almost every American as a great and significant part of the history of the United States. Franklin is considered The First American, not only because of his quest for Americas freedom, but for his numerous scientific accomplishments, his politics, and his publications. A large part of Franklins fame comes from his plan of self-improvement and his concept of living deliberately. Although he his is thought of as a hero in many peoples eyes, there are stills many people who feel Franklin was just a great citizen. A critic by the name of D.H Lawrence feels pretty passionately about this. To explore Franklin as an enlightenment figure, and his plan on self-improvement, a person must listen to Lawrences critisism. To understand Franklins self-improvement we must understand what he is trying to accomplish. He created a list of four resolutions to follow. He resolved to become more frugal so that he could save enough money to repay what he owed to others. He decided that he would be very honest and sincere "in every word and action." He promised himself to be industrious "to whatever business I take in hand." Lastly he vowed "to speak ill of no man whatever, not even in a manner of truth" and to "speak all the good I know of every body." From these resolutions Franklin created a list of thirteen virtues, which he followed systematically. These virtues if used properly were supposed to make him efficient and give him an edge in his business. Franklin makes presuppositions regarding our capacities to control our own lives. He suggests that everyone has the ability to analyze, and control the way they think and react to different situations. This is done by practicing his list of virtues, which in turn will make them habit and the virtues can be applied sub-consciously. This is huge, the idea that one can create themselves by realizing their habits and inhi...