Benjamin Franklin: An Inspirational Self-Made Man Essay -- American Hi

Benjamin Franklin is one of the most influential and famous figures of all time. Ben Franklin if often referred to as the self-made man, and his philosophies and beliefs in the Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin, edited by Louis P. Masur, has served as a self-help book for millions around the world. Franklins Autobiography is a prime example of the American dream, a rag to riches story that has inspired many another(prenominal) good deal to think of themselves and the community in a different light. Franklins moral and social philosophies are packed deeply into his Autobiography. Franklin believed that improving ones self was the key to success. Self-improvement, self-education, and will power are the main factors of a self-made man. Improving yourself will ultimately improve the society as a whole. Franklin speaks of principality and inclination. His idea was to produce the principle man with the apprisedness of mans natural inclination. Throughout the text Franklin provides examples from his own life that contradicts his moral and social philosophies. These contradictions are mostly caused by natural inclinations. Franklin uses these contradictions to educate people to be aware of their natural inclinations and to try and overcome them. Franklins realizes that improving oneself is a road with many imperfections. Not even the self-made man was completely perfect. A general theme in Franklins writings is the differences between the private and public self and how the two interact. character references One and Two of his Autobiography were written at different times and intended for different audiences. In Part One Franklin is speaking to his Son, (who was then the Governor of New Jersey) a public figure. It was started in 1771. Part Two was begun... ...ls. He says, ...their Aim seeming to be rather to make us Presbyterian than good Citizens. (Pg. 94) Franklin felt as though individual study should be emphasized over dogma. Benjamin Franklins moral an d social philosophies inspired and continue to inspire millions around the globe. Becoming a self-made man is a abundant and arduous task. Improve yourself, which will in return improve the society. Contradiction is inevitable when trying to follow strict ideals. Franklins purpose was to make people aware of their inclinations and to help them overcome the natural tendencies of man, which would limit our dependence on other people. Benjamin Franklin is an inspiration to us all. Works CitedFranklin, Benjamin, and Louis Masur, and Theda Perdue, and Frederick Douglass, and David Blight. Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin 2e. Bedford/St. Martins, 2007.