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

benzoin Franklin is one of the most influential and far-famed figures of all time. Ben Franklin if often referred to as the self-made man, and his philosophies and principles in the biography 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 people to think of themselves and the community in a different light. Franklins clean-living and accessible philosophies are packed late into his Autobiography. Franklin believed that improving ones self was the key to success. Self-improvement, self-education, and self-discipline are the main factors of a self-made man. Improving yourself lead ultimately improve the society as a whole. Franklin speaks of principality and inclination. His idea was to produce the principle man with the sentience of mans natural inclination. Throughout the text Franklin provides exampl es 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 get across them. Franklins realizes that improving oneself is a thoroughfare 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 globe self and how the two interact. dies 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 man 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 and social phi losophies inspired and continue to inspire millions around the globe. Becoming a self-made man is a long and arduous task. Improve yourself, which will in return improve the society. Contradiction is inevitable when trying to appraise 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 fervency 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.