how does Benjamin Franklin's 13 virtues affect our society?

Question

anonymous · Answer

t Ben Franklin's virtues do still apply to today's society. I can't help but think how different society would be had we stuck with his virtues. Since we kept a bunch of his inventions, like the printing press, bifocals, libraries, etc., why couldn't we keep up with all of his thirteen virtues? You make really good points at how today's society is somewhat flawed when it comes to Franklin's values. While I think they are all good virtues to practice, I believe that with some revision they would be easier to relate to for people today. For example, you mention that we live a very fast paced lifestyle, so if we were to modify virtue six, Industry (Lose no time; be always employed in something useful; cut off all unnecessary actions), to incorporate the busy lifestyle with an emphasis on the necessity to take breaks and relax, it might be easier for the modern person to practice this virtue. Also, I think it's a good idea to challenge the class at trying out Franklin's virtues and discussing it at the end of the semester.