Assignment: Benjamin Franklin Paper

Instructions

1. Read The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin, Dover Publications, 1996. 136 pp.

2. Consider the 18th century definitions of the following terms:

Civic virtue - The concept of an individual who is financially self-sufficient while avoiding luxury, follows the accepted code of morality, and is an unselfish public servant politician

Protestant work ethic - The concept of a citizen who works diligently for long hours, is thrifty and self-sufficient, supports himself and his family, builds up savings for the future, and feels this is a part of his service to God

Morality - Code of ethics that included honesty, both in personal life and in business dealings, no sexual misconduct, no gambling, avoiding bad company, moderation in alcohol, and church attendance

Public Citizen - One who puts the good of the community above his own good and served as a politician not for his own glory, but for the good of the state

3. Use the following title and outline when writing your paper.

Answer the questions after the bullet points.

Points will be deducted for failure to follow this outline.

Write 5-6 double spaced pages on a computer. Turn in a hard copy. Email the paper only if you are unable to attend class or there are other extenuating circumstances.

Title: Benjamin Franklin's Pursuit of Civic Virtue

Introduction: Briefly mention points to be made in the paper.

I. Franklin and the Protestant Work Ethic

• In the Autobiography Part One, how did Franklin follow the Protestant Work Ethic? In what ways did he disregard it? How did he learn from his mistakes?

• In Part Two and Part Three, did Franklin find financial success due to the Protestant Work Ethic? Describe his later business situation.

II. Franklin and Morality

• In Parts Two and Three, how did Franklin feel about religion? What in his religious attitudes and behavior would have been contrary to the norms of his day?

• How were his standards of morality in line with 18th century morality standards? How were they not?

III. Franklin as Public Servant

• Focusing on Part Three, describe the public services Franklin started, such as the fire company, the library, the street-cleaning service, the militia, etc. How did these things benefit the people of Franklin's city, Philadelphia, and his colony, Pennsylvania?

• From Part Three and Four, discuss the political offices Franklin held. Under what conditions would he take an office? How did the offices he took inconvenience him, but benefit others?

Conclusion

• Briefly summarize why you believe that Franklin was, or was not, a man of civic virtue.