Here are some questions for you to contemplate this week. As always, answer one, answer all, or neglect these and answer your own brilliant question...the point is to answer thoughtfully!
Was Benjamin Franklin ahead of his times? How?
Was BF a product of his times? How?
Are historical characters (meaning, like you and me!) able to "escape" their times, transcend their context somehow?
What difference does a person like BF make in the world?
Finally, think about the autobiography as a source: does it change the way you think about this book because it is BF talking about himself? Can't he paint himself in any light possible? How does it change your thinking on this as a source since the author was so aware of himself as a historical character?
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ReplyDeleteBenjamin Franklin was an extraordinary individual who not only set a positive example for mankind, but aided in the ABOMINABLE progression of humanity. In the videos mentioned in week 2 Benjamin Franklin was stated as being an “exemplary in the age of Enlightenment”. Benjamin Franklin was not only thinking on how to improve lives during his time era but for future generations as well. This man was so advanced in his form of thinking that he founded several colleges. Benjamin Franklin once said, “A genius without education is like silver in a mine”. Benjamin Franklin helped kick start the college of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania. Brown, New Jersey, Kings, Philadelphia, and Queens College were established shortly after. Benjamin Franklin believed in higher education therefore he also founded a library, published Poor Richard Almanac, and helped start a debate club. As a self taught scientist Benjamin Franklin published valuable theories of electricity, medicine, and astronomy. He invented the lightening rod, glass armonica, and the Franklin stove. Benjamin’s Franklin inspired some of the most known composers to use his invention of the glass harmonica to create huge sensations such as the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairies” composed by Tchaikovsky. Mozart created two pieces as well on Franklin’s glass harmonica. Benjamin Franklin allowed humanity to have a much easier lifestyle through the use of stove, music, and education. Not only did this man introduce new inventions and ideas to society but he created a movement to set forth for generations to come.
ReplyDeleteHello Janai, as i was reading your post you had some great points and information that Benjamin Franklin did. I loved how you explained everything in such detail. It was a pleasure reading what you had written. We both had somewhat the same tactics in what Benjamin Franklin introduced to today's society and i completely agree on everything that you stated. Great Job!
DeleteHi Janai! I loved reading your paragraph about Benjamin Franklin. I also liked the details you put into your entry. Your paragraph helped relearn about Ben Franklin. I like how you mentioned that he "allowed humanity to have a much easier lifestyle." His inventions have allowed us to have a much easier life than he had. He's a smart man and he has positively influenced and effected most of our lives.
DeleteHi Janai, i liked to mention that Benjamin Franklin was beyond advanced during his time. he just knew so much. And you are right, he was thinking of future generations and we are the ones that benefit from his advances, either technological or scientifically. Like you mentioned he slightly made life easier for us but he had to overcome barriers along his journey. Overall he was a brilliant man.
DeleteJanai, you are so rights, Benjamin Franklin not only try to improved his present but also our future. As you mention he helped kick start many college; now a days these college are some of the most famous and have help our country to become more educated. Furthermore, you also mention that Franklin founded a library and helped start a debate club.
Deletehey Janai, I loved the way you expressed yourself about Benjamin Franklin. He was indeed an exceptional man during his time and brought many changes to this world. Where would we be if it was not for his brilliance of finding exceptional colleges.
DeleteHey Janai, I'm so proud of you for your first sentence and I hope you know why. I agree that Benjamin Franklin was a man before his time just as others mentioned. His life time experiences proves that he qualifies to be one of the most brilliant men to live on earth. He managed to open up universities that based on academics rather than ministry.
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ReplyDeleteBenjamin Franklin was an influential man in US History. Benjamin Franklin created multiple inventions that are still seen and or use present time. Benjamin created three well known inventions that are fondly recognized as a stove, a glass harmonica, and a lightning rod. The glass harmonica was invented in 1761.The glass harmonica was so popular, that it influenced Mozart to use Benjamin Franklin’s invention to write two pieces of music. Beethoven and another musician also used Benjamin Franklin’s glass harmonica. In the video that was assigned to watch, it mentioned that the glass harmonica seemed like, “she had died and gone to heaven.” Benjamin believed that education can enhance a person capability and their intelligence. Since Benjamin perceived education as a necessary requirement in order to prosper, he found the University of Pennsylvania and the College of Philadelphia. After establishing the University and college he also influenced the community to construct new colleges like, New Jersey, Kings, Brown, Philadelphia, Queens, and Dartmouth. Benjamin later on found a library and he helped start a debate club. Aside from his interest of education he published theories of electricity, astronomy, and medicine. Benjamin Franklin was known as a self- teaching scientist. Ben Franklin also had found a fire company. The difference that Benjamin Franklin made in the world was extreme. Benjamin Franklin being such an abnormal human being did so many extraordinary things like inventing an ABOMINABLE creation such as, electricity. Electricity has its perks, but in today’s society it is the reason why we have television, phones, and internet.
ReplyDeleteJisel! Thats such a pretty name! Well anyways, I loved your response. I felt like you answered most of the questions that we were required to discuss. Your facts were accurate and you seemed to elaborate beautifully. I enjoyed reading your quote on how the glass harmonica sounded like. It made me visualize how the glass harmonica sounded like. Great use of vocabulary! After reading your post I feel as I know Benjamin Franklin so closely and I understand that he was a great man of power. It is crazy to think that this man paved our pathway in today's society. Humanity has evolved efficiently through his creations and way of thinking. Great job!
DeleteHi there Jisel, your response towards Benjamin Franklin was great. Especially mentioning how after establishing the University of Pennsylvania came many other great universities and I thought it was really cool that had mentioned the Benjamin Franklin founded a fire compant. You did very well in describing his greatest accomplishments.
DeleteHi there Jisel, I enjoyed reading your comment to Benjamin Franklin. It is great that you mentioned his eager to learn and prosper his intelligence, therefore he established the University of Pennsylvania. I agree with all the points you mentioned and I think I got a lot out of reading your commentary.
DeleteNice start to Ben Franklin week, Janai and Jisel!
ReplyDeleteBen Franklin was a very ambitious influential man in his time and for the United States. I say Ben Franklin was ambitious because when he put his mind to something he wanted to invent or anything, he took care of business, no matter how many mistakes or how many times he had to work on it. For example in the video of Ben Franklin this week it talked about how Mr. Franklin went to a performance where the musician was making beautiful noise out of glasses with water. Ben Franklin decided he wanted to invent an instrument just like it but looked different and built different. In 1761 he made the glass harmonica that would make the same sounds. Noises that would sound like one had just, "died and gone to heaven." He is also influential because he is so ambitious! He has shown us what every common man can be capable of. Benjamin Franklin taught himself how to do many scientific projects he has done. He created so many new inventions such as theories of electricity, medicine, and many other important products that the world we live in today has evolved. He believed and had faith in the common man. Anybody could be anything they wanted to be according to Benjamin Franklin and he was living proof! Every man just needs an education to further themselves in the world. Ben Franklin changed the world we live in for the good, it would be ABOMINABLE if the United States or the world were to never have an intelligent man like him.
ReplyDeleteMelissa I love the way you described how Benjamin Franklin was such a hard worker, what ever he set his mind to he was determined to work on that project no matter how many mistakes were made. He really gave people the opportunty to believe in themselves and to become a thriving civilization.
DeleteMelissa, I would have liked some more insight on Ben Franklin and what he exactly did, but I loved how you specified that he was ambitious. Ben Franklin was a man like no other and I am sure there will be more men in this world similar to him. Ben Franklin revolutionized the world and allowed humanity today to be where they are now because of his inventions. Not only is this man a legend in history but a man who believed in higher education. Through higher education individuals are able to expand their knowledge and apply it into their daily lives and now there are millions of universities and colleges around the world.
DeleteI agree with you Melissa because Benjamin Franklin was such a great and intelligent man. Even though he struggled during is younger days, he didn't allow those struggles to over power him. Til this very day Franklin is still a great role model for students struggling in school or in any other life challenge.
DeleteI find that when somebody is passionate about something they really succeed in it. Benjamin Franklin happened to be very passionate about bettering humankind and gaining knowledge. I think he definitely succeeded in this with all the scientific experiments and views on life he attributed to.
DeleteI believe that Benjamin Franklin was a product of his time, being such an intelligent man who provided so many brilliant inventions to the United States at the time that is still being used today is just extraordinary. Growing up he had apprenticed for his older brother in a printing company that prospered very much and with all the experience he had gained decided to open up had later in life his own printing company with his wife, which flourished greatly during the 1730’s and 40’s. Later in 1743 having been his own self-taught scientist had invented what people still used today, the stove, which was referred to at the time as the Franklin stove which efficiently warmed up houses, very useful during the harsh winters. Benjamin Franklin brought music to the U.S. by inventing what he called the Glass Armonica in 1761 which had become not only popular in the United States but also in Europe as well people such as the famous German physician Franz Mesmer, Marie Antoinette, Mozart, Beethoven, even the popular tune which was intended for the glass armonica used in the ballet performance the Nut Cracker known as “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” by Tchaikovsky. Yet, Benjamin Franklin brought more to the United States than just a means of entertainment. He was a man that thrived on working for people and helping them in any way, he founded the college of Philadelphia, now known as the University of Pennsylvania. Being that Benjamin Franklin’s intentions for the improvement of society was so pure it would be ABOMINABLE had he not been around during his era to have invented so many useful products that led to the United States into a more progressive way of living.
ReplyDeleteHello Maria, I loved your explanation on Benjamin Franklin. He was such an intelligent man and he invented so many different things that are well known in our society today. Also the way you explained in such detail what he invented and how they were used was great. Benjamin Franklin influenced and moved so many people into creating and finding things such as schools, music, and education. Great job Maria, i enjoyed reading your submission.
DeleteHi Maria. i would like to point out one of your ideas on Franklin being an apprentice to his older brother , that is the difficulty Fanklin and james faced when working together. James did not repay Franklin for taking care of his business while he was in prison, instead after Franklin quit on him he told other printers in Boston i believe to not hire his brother. Franklin then realized he had to leave. But i wonder what would have happened if Franklin would have stayed in Boston. Most likely he would not have been advanced during his time. Overall great response to the question, very descriptive.
DeleteMaria, reading your paragraph definitely inspired me more as to what Benjamin Franklin did. You did well on describing his inventions by giving an analysis for each statement, which interested me to continue reading! I agree in the last few sentences when you mention that it would have been ABOMINABLE if he had not been around during his era to invent the things he did, in which are very useful to us now!
DeleteYes, to this day he is always inspiring all kinds of people to do inventions and to think outside of the box, which i think is great. I feel that it is always nice to see people to want to make a change, because there is always time for a change. I completely agree with Daniela it also kind of inspires me to be more like Franklin in taking risks and making a impact in society. Through our history he will continue to be admired and remembered.
DeleteBenjamin Franklin is an inspirational role model for following his instincts that made many differences throughout his life. One consisted on education. It all started when he was young. Josiah, Franklin’s father wanted him to become a minister like him. Although Franklin did not have much interest on becoming a minister he did show interest in reading and writing. He was then put into a grammar school and later moved to a differently one because of his advanced learning skills. Franklin learned most of his writing from other authors. But throughout his life he faced many hardships to follow his dream. He worked for his brother James, as a delivery boy, for Andrew Bradford, for Governor Keith, Collins, etc. Franklin was lied many times and was also taken advantage of by most off those people. He did not give up so easily. Eventually later in life, he opened his own library which caught the attention of many people. He also invented the Franklin stove, fire brigade, the police force, the University of Pennsylvania, and etc. Although franklin did not receive much education he thought educational was fundamental. His biography soon became inspirational to people. Franklin achieved great things and he was not only a printer but also scientist, founding father, musician, inventor, etc. His journey had prepared him to gain advantages to bring to America. Only a man like Benjamin Franklin could have done so much for making the world advance with his knowledge. He is simply a role model to me.
ReplyDeleteBenjamin Franklin's devotion for public service is remarkable. Yessica, you are dead on your education argument. That contribution led to an educated merchant class. Which further down the road became a thriving middle class based on a free market.
DeleteIn my own opinion, Benjamin Franklin was a man full of knowledge and wise judgement. Throughout his life he was consistently active within the lines of education. Franklin was sent to grammar school to develop his skills in writing and in math. However, he failed in math but his academic writing was amazing and quickly rose to the top of his class. Franklin admired his father by stating "sound understanding and solid judgement".Although Benjamin loved his father Josiah, Franklin's attitude towards his father's work and Josiah saw this and began witnessing his son's potential in books and writing. Over time, Franklin's skills began to become so well that he became an ABOMINABLE advanced individual. Also, Benjamin believed education was such an important aspect in an individual's life that he began creating colleges throughout the colonies. Benjamin was so advanced in many ways that it was difficult to understand his work because people weren't as educated and gifted as Franklin was. Overall, Benjamin Franklin has become the specific trademark role-model for students and adults to take their education seriously and to inspire people to become wise and intelligent just like the great man who changed the lives of the colonies.
ReplyDeletei agree with on how education was important to him. he always stayed innovative and always thinking of new ways to make things better for people. him finding the universities just so people can have a better education.
DeleteHi Virginia!! I totally agree how he valued education. When I first read the "The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin," I also noticed his excel in writing and reading but failed his arithmetic in the beginning. That did not stop him from being intelligent. He is a role model to many individuals, even famous ones. This man was full of knowledge He was a scientist, a writer, created colleges, and more! We don't see that a lot in today's society, therefore he is unique.
DeleteWithout BF's ambition towards making a better world for man I'm sure the world would be quite ABOMINABLE. With each subject he worked hard to master and in some ways he did more than mastering it. He attributed a lot to this world and without his help I don't think we would of stumbled onto the innovations quite as quickly.
DeleteBenjamin Franklin was ahead of his time because he was a very well educated person and very wise. he discovered electricity and was able to invent a lot of things such as the lightening rod, bifocals, carriage odometer, Franklin stove, the glass armonica, and was a successful writer. he was always innovative and always thinking of ways to make the world better by creating all of these new inventions that would help people out in so many ways. He is a product of his time because he was around during the time of enlightenment which was a time of ideas, thoughts, interaction, and innovation. people came together to create things and this was how Benjamin Franklin became so successful because he was able to create things that would make the colonies better for every one. People didn't understand how naturally smart he was and how he was able to create so many things because formal education wasn't apart of the american institution. I also read that he quit school at the age of 10, yet became one of the most noted intellectuals of his time, earning honorary degrees from ivy league universities. In a more established society such as modern America or the British empire at its height, Franklin likely would have been overlooked or ignored. the reason for him being overlooked is because he lived in a big society, people would have expected him to have a formal education, and it would have been one voice in a crowd of many.
ReplyDeleteHey Tyler, I completely agree with you Franklin was a very innovative man, who was definitely ahead of his time. The fact that he quit school at the age of ten and was still able to be one of the most influential people in history is insane to me. Great job!
DeleteI agree with you Tyler, I also think Benjamin Franklin was ahead of his time because of all the revolutionary ideas and inventions he created during his life time. Also, I agree that he was somewhat a product of his time and that he created things to improve his present and our future. Furthermore, his inventions have help our country to improved and be better.
DeleteYea i think it's pretty amazing how things that came ahead years ago are still being used in the present and can be more advance in the future.
DeleteI agree with the rest of you in that Benjamin Franklin was an exceptional man in history. The virtues he lists are commendable yet at first thought they seem outrageous to be able to keep up with. However, reading further, his explanation of how he went about them was very smart. He started with one and if he could go a week without straying from the virtue then he would move on to the next. His first virtue being temperance, followed by (in order): silence, order, resolution, frugality, industry, sincerity, justice, moderation, cleanliness, tranquility, chastity, and humility. These are decent goals/virtues to attain in order to better the self. With the exception of, in my opinion, his description of humility: Imitate Jesus and Socrates. No offense to those who feel differently but I’m not going to try and imitate Jesus. If Franklin were here to see what today’s society was like I’m sure he would find most people ABOMINABLE in the way that they live. For example, he’d probably be petrified of ‘hippies’ for their lack of cleanliness and he’d surely want to school me in the virtue of Order. Mr. Franklin was just a better and more virtuous man than most and achieved a lot, as other classmates have noted in their posts.
ReplyDeleteSidenote: When I saw the glass armonica it blew my mind. I find it ABOMINABLE that it is an endangered instrument.
When I heard about the glass armonica from the first video I did not know what to expect of how it would look. I was surprised to see how such a soothing sound comes from glass and water.
DeleteBenjamin Franklin was an interesting man; everything about his life was different when compared to other men of his time and age. He was most definitely ahead of his period since the time he was a young boy. At such a young age he was already madly fascinated by reading and coming up with new ideas in terms of minor projects. Franklin was a bright and curious man, whose inventions and ideas lead to some of the most important advancements in technology and education today. His passion towards writing and the desire to work in a newspaper company only goes to prove what a motivated individual he was. During that period, it is not common for men of such a young age to actually want to keep trying to accomplish something that is seen as an obstacle; they will find an easier way around it. There were some points in Franklin’s journey where he was treated in an ABOMINABLE way, such as when his brother put him down for wanting to succeed or when he was not given the recommendation letter needed to get a job. Through every obstacle put in his way, Benjamin Franklin overcame them and strove to make everything better. His accomplishments included different printing methods, discovery of electricity, glass armonica, advocating for library, and allowing university access. With everything Franklin accomplished, it leads me to think that he was for a fact ahead of his time.
ReplyDeleteBenjamin Franklin was truly ahead of his time. It seems to me that he had the belief that most people seemed to have nowadays that with enough hard work you can become anything you wish. Not many people during his time saw life this way. They seemed to not have the drive for improvement Franklin showcased. Today if someone doesn't believe he can better himself through hard work we find it extremely ABOMINABLE.
DeleteTrue, quite ABOMINABLE!
DeleteBenjamin Franklin was in a league of his own during this time period. Not many people viewed the world like he did. The people around Franklin seemed to be content with the status they were born with, rarely would you find people trying to better their status in society. It wasn't that people didn't want to better themselves they just didn't think it was possible. This is where Franklin was different; he believed that with hard work and great drive he could become anything he wanted to be. Franklin started out in a relatively middle class family and worked his way up to being one of the most prominent and admired figures in American history. Franklin accomplished this by improving his skill sets and attaining all the knowledge he could. He was business man, a scientist, a writer and many other things. Franklin was very proficient at the things he did and seemed to have the belief that through education and science he could keep bettering himself. This is why I believed he was always in search of new things to write, new things to read and new things to experiment. Franklin always felt there was more things out there that would help him become a greater human being.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with you, Benjamin Franklin was extremely motivated to accomplish more than the people around him. His drive outdid those around him, but thanks to that we have a few of the greatest discoveries/inventions. Franklin was a well rounded man due to his intelligence, compassion, and skills. Great Job!
DeleteHi Mauricio. I totally agree with you that he was in the league during his time period. I like how you said that Benjamin Franklin never stopped working and that there were many mysteries in this world. Since he had this thinking, he had created many things that actually benefit us today. Franklin is definitely a genius, and wise. Nice!
DeleteMauricio, I like the way you word this "Benjamin Franklin was in a league of his own..." It was so true too! He never seemed to feel limited by himself or his surroundings. He was always thinking forward and thinking outside of the box. He really had a great way of looking at things!
DeleteMauricio, you made a good point. Not many people tried to improve their status or better themselves. They went about their everyday lives just meeting ends meet without the intention of becoming something better. Sadly, there are many people like this today in our society. Of course, this is not true for many of us college students because we go to college to improve ourselves, but there are still some members of society who are perfectly fine living their lives with no intention to become more competitive or educated.
DeleteHey Mauricio, I completely agree with you Franklin did believe he was always able to make more, and invent more. Overall nothing stopped him from trying to better himself, I feel like the drive Franklin had was unique and not a lot of people these days push themselves to their full capabilities, like how he used to. Great job, I really enjoyed it.
ReplyDeleteYes, I agree with you Mauricio,
DeleteHe never stopped working and continued to attain higher education. He constantly wanted to improve himself but still with great humble. Although he was from humble beginnings, he did not let anything hinder him from achieving his goals.
I agree with all of you. I also feel that Franklin was not a person who once he had reached success he would just stop. He kept going, because he was trying to find ways to improve what he had been working on. It is kind of like when they say there is always room for improvement and that is exactly what he was doing.
DeleteBenjamin Franklin was indeed ahead of his times because of many reasons. However, he did not achieved what he had without his amazing character. Franklin was determined to get where he wanted to when he puts his heart to it. He was very hardworking and never did stop working until he got to where he wanted to achieve. As stated in the autobiography, although he was "apprenticed to his brother", they still fought and Franklin moved away. But, this did not stop Franklin and he continued to pursue his dreams. His first of inventions was the Franklin stove and soon after that he was awarded with honorary degrees at Harvard and Yale. He was also ahead of his times because he didn't stop learning. He was a very intelligent man. As seen, he did not invent electricity but experimented with science and electricity multiple times. Franklin's inventions reveals a man with talent and interests, and also the reason why he was ahead of his times.
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DeleteHi Tricia, i totally agree with you that Benjamin Franklin was ahead if his time, he was an incredible man with incredible talents. i also find his determination fascinating as well as his knowledge. I enjoyed reading in his autobiography how he would ask him self in the morning "what good shall i do with this day?" and as well as in the afternoon with "what good have i done with today?". That shows that he lived everyday to the fullest and always tried to do something good. Franklin was one of a kind, not many people saw the world through his eyes, all he wanted to do was better the world in anyway possible.
DeleteI agree. I think that if Benjamin Franklin did not moved away, he would not have gain motivation or inspiration to better the lives of the colonies. I think it would be a cause and effect kinda thing; if he didn't do this, then he wouldn't do that? But Benjamin is a remarkable man. He is very intelligent and very advance in his times.
DeleteBenjamin Franklin is ahead of his time because he was uniquely intelligent and actually valued education. When Benjamin Franklin began learning to read, his father’s friends told him that he would positively become a remarkable scholar. Benjamin Franklin’s arithmetic was terrible since he failed at it but his writing and reading was overwhelming. He had rose and surpassed the class which resulted in moving him into another class. This was a sign that Benjamin Franklin was ahead. Not only was Benjamin Franklin a talented writer but he was also religiously educated as a Presbyterian. Benjamin Franklin knew the essentials of most religions which resulted him into respecting all religions. He was not an ignorant man when it comes to religion although he does not like religious conflicts. While Benjamin Franklin was a natural genius for education, he had also invented many things that are useful. One of his inventions was called the Glass Armonica. It allowed a musician to play low to high tones. A foot powered spindle would rotate the varying sizes of glass while using fingers dipped with water to produce the sound. Mozart, a famed musician had produced two pieces of musical art with the glass armonica and even Marie Antoinette played the instrument. Many recognized composers used Benjamin Franklin’s invention to create pieces just like the “Dance of the Sugar Fairies” by Tchaikovsky. In my opinion, Tchaikovsky’s piece was brilliant and had a nice, comforting tune to it and it showed me memories of the past! It reminded me of the past when I was at Europe 3 years ago. A street musician was playing music with glass. It was like when Benjamin Franklin attended a concert where the musician was playing music with wine glasses. The unearthly sound, it was comforting although the glass armonica had some complex sounds. It would be an honor to see the glass armonica played by a musician! His inventions are still being used today but of course, it is upgraded since time passed. Benjamin Franklin is definitely ahead of his time since he was a writer, scientist, and more! Talent, intelligence, and hard work combined made Benjamin Franklin famous. He made so many changes to this world by inspiring individuals, even famous ones.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you Harmon, because you have point out important points about why Benjamin Franklin was ahead of his time. Also, you mention some of the revolutionary items that Franklin invented and that show that he was way ahead of his time. Furthermore, you mention some of early life of Benjamin Franklin, which also show that he was a very smart person and that he was ahead of his time, even at a young age.
DeleteIt is people like Benjamin who are inspiring because he tried so much to help improve this world and was successful with many of his inventions. I enjoyed reading your summary of why you think he is ahead of his times.
DeleteBenjamin Franklin was a phenomenal character of our country because he had revolutionary ideas that make him to be ahead of his time. For example, he was one of the founding fathers of the United States, he published many theories about medicine, math and physics, he was a politician, he was a musician and inventor. All the things he did and invented make him a phenomenal human being that was very ahead of his time. I think he saw a picture about the future a how it should be, that’s why he try to improve his present so that we could have a better future. For example, he was a symbol of the American Enlightenment because he introduced revolutionary theories about science and math to the colonies. For example, his theories about physics helped to the discovery of electricity; which led him to invented the lightning rod. He also invented the bifocals, the Franklin stove, odometer and the glass armonica. This last one was considered by Franklin his masterpiece. Furthermore, Franklin was responsible for the construction of many colleges and clubs, such as, Philadelphia College, University of Pennsylvania, Kings, New Jersey and Queens College. Also, he was the first president of the American Philosophical Society. Furthermore, he also improved street and the water system. Moreover, at the end of his life, Franklin freed his slaves because he saw the ABOMINAL way they were treated. Benjamin Franklin was indeed ahead of his time and thanks to him today we have a constitution, science and electricity.
ReplyDeleteAntonio, I definitely agree with you that Franklin was ahead of his time. He accomplished so much throughout his life and it didn't stop at inventing or helping to improve just ONE thing, he worked on numerous! It also wasn't just the fact that he had good ideas, or that he was intelligent and creative, it was how he used all three of those characteristics to act on it and create or establish all the examples you had listed. We really do owe him a great thank you for all that he made possible for us today. Good job!
DeleteI think Benjamin Franklin was a product of his times although he was ahead of others because he was inventing things from what he viewed happening in the environment he was in. An invention he thought of was the glass armonica from going to a concert and planning something better than what he had seen. He was determined to invent things that would not only help in his time of living but that would change the times to come. In 1761 he presented his glass harmonica. This armonica caught the attention of many because of its sound and there was a story that told that his wife liked the music so much that one night she heard Benjamin playing it and felt she was in heaven. I think the music produced by this instrument sounds smooth and not at all insane. A person like Benjamin makes a big difference in the world because there has to be someone who is interested in the progress of society and of the future. This person has to be someone who is willing to try out ideas and will invent no matter how many tries it takes for it to be perfect or for it to work. There is always a need for someone to lead people into education and Benjamin was a great example of a person who encouraged education by opening colleges and universities. I think it is better to read a book when a person is talking about himself because no one else can describe what they are interested in as detailed as yourself.
ReplyDeleteGood job, everyone. I hope everyone has been watching THE WHOLE youtube video introduction each week!
ReplyDeleteI guess it was not a good idea to watch the video Sunday and post Thursday forgetting to use Abominable and noticing after posting and remembering I had to do that.. lol
DeleteBenjamin Franklin was a man that was definitely ahead of his time, his knowledge and wisdom was definitely not something that was seen in that era. Even as a young man Franklin was doing much more than anyone his age. Although he left school at the age of ten to become an apprentice, he was still able to become a founding father and a great inventor. His inventions have been so influential to the products we even use today and personally without the inventions and the influence of these, life would be ABOMINABLE. Franklin was always thinking of new ways that he was able to better his own life and society as well. Benjamin Franklin’s inventions were in a variety such as the glass armonica, the bifocals, lightning rod, and the Franklin stove. Benjamin Franklin was founder of the University of Pennsylvania and the cofounder of the hospital. I feel that if Benjamin Franklin was in our time, his ideas would be ignored because he did not have a college degree. And even if he did not have an actual degree he was a man full of wisdom, and knowledge who wanted to push the limit and make inventions for the everyday use. This just goes to show us that even though he does not have a college degree he is still able to contribute to the world and make it a better place for everyone. And if Franklin was still here today he would have been able to invent so much more with the resources we have today.
ReplyDeleteIt is funny that we so value the degree now, right? BF could do all of those things with very little formal education...but a whole lot of other types of education!
DeleteAnna, I agree with everything you said about Benjamin Franklin. I responded very similarly in that you can tell that Benjamin Franklin was wanting to better society around him through his inventions. I also really enjoyed your opinion on how if he didn't have a college degree, that our society today would not take him quite as seriously. It's sad, but so true. Where we're at now, those that don't have a degree are almost looked down upon, which may cause some to not stand up and continue with their beliefs or ideas. I would hope to think that those like Benjamin Franklin today aren't affected by that.
DeleteBenjamin Franklin was a wonderful man during his time. He brought many changes to the United States and may I say worldwide. His brilliance and intelligence are incomparable. His outstanding innovation in science and technology have helped us all. Franklin invented the glass harmonica and this was through the inspiration of a concert where he heard music through glass wine cups. In 1726, Benjamin Franklin formed a debate club by the name of the Junto. He took over the Pennsylvania Gazette and made it into a successful publication. Franklin had many small projects: the fire brigade, the police force, the University of Pennsylvania, and the street sweeping service, but the most important was his interest in politics. He came up with proposals that would help raise funds for colonial defense during the French and Indian War. Franklin advocated for woman’s education, he set up the property tax, ands sets up the first fire department. Franklin was the creator of the University of Pennsylvania. In 1742, Franklin invents the stove. Franklin states “human felicity is produced not so much by pieces of good fortune that seldom happen, as by little advantages that occur every day” and with this statement we conclude his invention of lights and street sweeping service. I can go on and on stating many great things that Franklin did during his life time. He plays an important role in every person’s life. Imagine our life without lights and without stoves? How would our lives be if Franklin did not raise the funds that were needed for the colonial defense? It is true that Franklin has made and is still influencing in America today. Benjamin Franklin’s autobiography has become an inspiration to many and it still influences today. He is a wonderful man and a true role model for those who want to gain intelligence and make a difference.
ReplyDeleteI like that you praised him really nicely in your entry. I sort of feel like I insulted him by calling him arrogant now in my entry, but he is an admirable person. I liked his blunt honesty when he talks about "vanity" in the first part.
DeleteIt is great that you should say that BF has become a role model of intelligence and difference, since- after reading his autobiography- I am positive that that was his greatest hope for the future. Though he was not perfect (he was human after all) I believe that he carried himself very well and admitted his faults, or at least some of them. In the autobiography, I believe this was first illustrated when, as Anna mentioned above, he admitted to possessing some vanity in his accomplishments.
DeleteI believe that Benjamin Franklin was very much ahead of his time. From his style of thinking to how proactive he was with his life and inventions. For example, he had differing views on religion that very different from the views of the time. While the rest of America was attempting to consolidate into one religion, Franklin was studying and recognizing other religions, like Deism. Franklin was also taking inspirations from various things and creating and inventing amazing things, like the glass armonica, libraries, colleges, bifocals, the lightening rod, and the Franklin stove. He always seemed to be thinking ahead, how his inventions might change or help the world around him. And while the rest of the world was caught up in the ABOMINABLE French and Indian War, he was trying to raise money to help the matter. I think that "historical characters," like ourselves, can transcend their context like Franklin did. I may not be entirely sure how it can be done, but I have a feeling that it can be. Those that have created the Internet, the Apple products, even Facebook, have done it. I think it takes a certain degree of creativeness and forward thinking, just like Benjamin Franklin. His style had inspired and continues to inspire so many people.
ReplyDeleteIsn't it amazing how many improvements or inventions one man can make? I could understand a group of people working together and achieving a great number of things but one man is just incredible! And the fact that he had such a variety and they were not all in the same general subject area. He worked with music, schools, government, appliances, and so much more. He really was a historical character for this country.
DeleteBenjamin Franklin lived the American dream. He went from being the youngest of a large family that wasn’t wealthy, to climbing the ladder and becoming a very well known, intelligent man who accomplished many things. From the time he was little, his family knew that he was going to do great things as they decided to send him to school. Although he did end up leaving, his mind didn’t give up on learning more and more. Franklin strived to further his knowledge and push towards achieving more and more. He never gave up and he didn’t slow down. He knew what he wanted to do and he went for it. Not only did he better his life and achieve his goals, but he also helped others and used his talents to better the world around him when it came to drawing up plans for his country to use for protection or street sweeping. Franklin was the reason for many improvements that continue in our life today and it would be ABOMINABLE if we didn’t have a man like him so early on and ahead of his time. With his solid work ethic and perseverance, Franklin proved to everyone that a child who came from a lower middle class family could grow up into a man admired all over the world for his great accomplishments.
ReplyDeletehi Tori. Yes, I totally agree with you that he lived the ideal American dream by starting off as a common person in that society and rising to be a respected figure through perseverance.
Deletei also agree with Tori. I can truely say he was one of the very first to start off with very little and with perseverance and hard work, attained alot. he showed others how to use their minds and gave them hope to succeed in America.
DeleteHello Tori, I had not thought of Benjamin Franklin living the American dream until you brought it up. Great point! Although, at the time the idea of the American dream was not yet in place, Franklin did fulfill what we would now call the American dream. I also admire Benjamin’s perseverance and admire for learning, despite him not having completed school when he was a young you, he was able to accomplish a great deal many of those with an education could not. I have always had the impression that just because many people have degrees, does not necessarily mean they are smart. To me, a person’s drive, determination, and logical reasoning both inside and outside the classroom make an individual smart. Franklin was a figure who displayed these and many more positive characteristics.
DeleteBenjamin Franklin is quite a character. His original intentions of writing a memoir for his son got swept away under the carpet; it turned into a published autobiography. I find this interesting because the three parts are all different. The first part seems more personal, the second is more about self improvement, and the third he talks about his accomplishments. I like how he knows he's an arrogant person, but he did not come off as ADOMINABLE. Besides that, I do think he was ahead of his time and for these two points in particular. The first reason is that from an early age he showed he was an intellectual person who read and was able to think things through. The second is that since he wanted to have a good life he was able to think outside the box. His way of thinking helped him achieve his fame. For these reasons Franklin was able to think for himself unlike others, and his eagerness to discover, write, invent, and accomplish made him ahead of his time. He was able to accomplish many things that we use today and take for granted. His contributions include the first version of a fire department, a hospital, clean communities, college universities, care packages to soldiers and let us not forget electricity. These contributions and others helped to better modern society. I like that he encouraged education for women as well. He made a difference by being a figure for America. He can be looked at as inspiration and a role model for the ideal American dream. He was in fact a common person, but he rose to the top and is now a historical figure. After finishing the reading I did learn about society and other people during that time and how it progressed. I learned that Franklin wanted to be remembered in history for his success and contributions rather than personal life.
ReplyDeleteHi Anna well I liked what you have stated in your response and I do very much agree with you, but I have a question that I been wondering when reading your response and others do you think that Benjamin Franklin was motivated by the fame or he was motivated by the desire to live a better life?
DeleteGood question. Well I did mention "fame" in my entry, but Franklin talked a lot about being a better person which I think motivated him to want a better life.
DeleteBenjamin Franklin was an extremely dedicated and motivated and dedicated person. While reading his autobiography I found many examples that that proved to me he was a driven man. One example I found in the text was when he said, “Reading was the only amusement I allow'd myself. No time in taverns, games, or frolicks of any kind; and in my industry in my business continu'd as indefatigable as it was necessary.” BF was the type of person who was always striving for knowledge. He was more concerned with creating a city of man than one of God and he proved this with his inventions. Even with the little schooling he did his knowledge far surpasses many people of today. Benjamin Franklin was a man after his time. His inventions brought about so much change and a foundation for what we have today. It seemed he just looked outside and was able to create ideas revolutionary to the times. Not only was he trying to learn new things but also trying to better himself as a human being. He had a list of virtues that he spent his time trying to master. He would try to concentrate on bettering a virtue each day then work on a different one on the next. Maybe because of that attitude he was more inclined to think about what the world needed. His autobiography makes him out to be an intelligent and well rounded man, but I feel as though the autobiography was only praising his good deeds and works. I don’t really get a good picture of his whole story. I’m curious as to what type of person he really was.
ReplyDeleteGreat response Talia and I also think Benjamin Franklin was a highly motivated person, but I have wondered what was the thing the highly motivated Benjamin Franklin so much that he was so Successful.
DeleteI definitely agree that for someone with such little formal schooling, Benjamin Franklin was brilliant. He was primarily self-taught and self-sufficient and I think that is what allowed him to be so successful in his lifetime. Although he does point out several mistakes that he wishes he could have changed throughout the course of the autobiography, you're right in saying that we don't completely get the "whole picture" so to speak, of who Benjamin Franklin was as a person. His brilliance cannot prove a good personality or lack of fault.
DeleteBenjamin Franklin was very talented man. Benjamin Franklin always seemed to be involved in everything. For instance he was involved with the people and starting colleges, founded libraries involved in pavement and improving the roads. He was a scientist, inventor and so many other great things that made Americans reach prosperity by just on matter of time. Benjamin Franklin also seem to have resolution and answer for Americans. He was a great talented inventor that invented many creations that had a big impact in the “abominable” harsh time period. Benjamin Franklin seem to be ahead of his time period because always came up with new inventions that would make life for Americans and others more interesting. Great inventions like most importantly the discovery of electricity made Benjamin Franklin looked as he was way ahead of his time period. Electricity is the substance that makes the world easy and being that he discovered it in that time period well it just makes him even more distinctly highly talented from the rest of the men in his time period. One of his inventions that grave him great pleasure was the glass armonica. The glass armonica was a great invention because it was used by many other famous people in history. The glass armonica was so creative and especially the sound that came off it. The difference that people like Benjamin Franklin make on the world is that it just makes it more interesting to live longer just to see how much the world has and will improve over the years and people like Benjamin Franklin make the world a better place.
ReplyDeleteI agree that Benjamin Franklin was way ahead of his time period which made everything we have today the way it is. Franklin did have great inventions and it made possible the different technological advances we have. Good job explaining everything.
DeleteBenjamin Franklin was an extraordinary human being during his time. Benjamin Franklin was many things in his life time; a leading author, printer, political theorist, politician, postmaster, scientist, musician, inventor, satirist, civic activist, statesman, and diplomat. No one during that time would accomplish more than or even as much as Benjamin Franklin, he was definitely ahead of his time. The living conditions were ABOMIDABLE, but Benjamin Franklin showed a lot of dedication to his work and loved improving the community. He was over all a kind hearted man who enjoyed bettering the world, and with his inventions and ideas, he would. He invented the Franklin Stove, the glass harmonica, Bifocals, the lightning rod, and the carriage odometer. The Franklin Stove and the Glass harmonica are still used in today’s society, proving he was way ahead of his time. Benjamin Franklin was one of the most influential people of his time in the new world. He also brought schools and universities to the New World. He kept the streets clean and bettered the community. More than a man he was a visionary who would not only change his community and the world around him, but also paved the road for a brighter future. A person like Benjamin Franklin could change the world. With the right mindset and some dedication, anything can be done.
ReplyDeleteIt is very good that you mentioned all the titles of Benjamin Franklin which helps illustrate that Franklin was indeed very knowledgeable which greatly influenced the way we see this world!
DeleteI agree. Listing the titles is indicative of BF's accomplishment mentality.
DeleteGreat insights Jeffrey. Benjamin was indeed a remarkable man. Just like I said to Heather, his inventions, findings, contributions, etc benefitted the people in the colony. He really was devoted to the community. He used his knowledge and abilities to better the lives of the colonies.
DeleteThe world today is filled with so many advancements whether it is through literary, technological, and musical works. All these advancements is largely due to the many influences of great minds. Benjamin Franklin was an author, a scientist, and many other noble titles and many are like Benjamin Franklin, which we can see today. Besides being an author and scientist, Benjamin Franklin was also an inventor. Inventing new things from ideas is what greatly influences the world to reach advancements. But, if no one had the courage to share their ideas and put them out there for the world to see, then the world would not be able to experience the different inventions made that make living an easier place to live. It would be entirely different if people who were like Benjamin Franklin did not input their different ideas. Inventions like the bifocals, invented by Franklin, would not come about and it would be very hard for people who have poor vision to see. In conclusion, it is awesome that people who have advanced minds and imaginative brains exist in this world to make the world we live in a little more interesting
ReplyDelete-Jamille Pino
DeleteYes, It baffles me to think that Benjamin Franklin incorporated so many different roles and fused them to together in his role as a founding father. He not only had military experience but was a scientist, inventor, politician, diplomat and musician. I missed quite a bit more but he was amazing and his ideals still live in the United States constitution today.
DeleteI agree. He brought forth so many useful invention and systems for the world to use. Things that we probably take for granted such as a library and postal service. He is a man to be admired for many years to come.
DeleteBenjamin Franklin
ReplyDeleteBenjamin Franklin was definitely ahead of his time. His interest in improving the standard of living for the colonists is remarkable. Many of his inventions were stirred by observations he made in regards to public service. His unselfish attitude in my opinion transcends his time and arguably our time as well. The stove for example was a creation he invented for widespread use to assist with daily life. He also refused to patent it in order for the invention to be available for more people. The concept of virtuosity is again an important aspect of his motives for civil service. His advocacy for civil rights and liberties paved a new road for other thinkers such Samuel Adams. Samuel Adams leader of the Sons of Liberty, led the Boston Tea party advocating rights of the colonies against taxes. Benjamin Franklin was against taxes too, although did not support Samuel Adams methods.
Benjamin Franklin made numerous discoveries such as hospitals, street cleaning, his famous kite experiment, Armonica, stove, etc. Those make him a remarkable inventor/scientist but not a revolutionary thinker.
I argue that his ideals are what makes him transcend generations. Plenty of brilliant men invented amazing things but not all had the unselfish heart Benjamin Franklin showed for the common individual. I argue that his public devotion paved the road for the middle class to rise. He also showed respect and care for Native Americans something not many people showed in those days. His devotion for civil liberty and service for the public in my opinion is what makes him ahead of his time.
Abominable
DeleteYes, good one, Raul!
DeleteAgree. Franklin did improve the way people were living, which i think is great. we need more people like that, who take risks and is willing to learn from their mistakes to make the worlds a better place. Raul, you did many great points that I did not even think about. He did devotion and love for what he was doing. I like when you said that he had an "unselfish heart" because he was a common individual, humble in many ways.
DeleteI believe that Benjamin Franklin was ahead of his times, the reason being so is that he was a man of many talents. Not only was he a scientist and diplomat, he was also a journalist,inventor,statesman and civic leader. His inventions were the stove, a glass armonica, and a lightning rod. The glass armonica was Franklin favorite invention. This invention does produce a lovely sound, although listening to someone play the armonica for hours would be a ABOMINABLE pain. Aside from his inventions he had great determination to better the world in anyway possible. For example the 13 moral virtues he had written during his time to me, seem as guidelines to live a better life. His virtues were temperance, silence, resolution, frugality, industry, sincerity, justice, moderation, cleanliness, tranquility, Chasity, and humility. He also had two questions that he would ask himself, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. The Morning Question, "What Good shall I do this Day?" and the Evening Question, "What Good have I done to day? ". Benjamin Franklin made a huge difference in the world, he was a man of great knowledge and was a very wise man.
ReplyDeleteI like how you mention the two questions that Franklin would ask himself because this shows what was his intentions for the day and then reflect how he made a difference. It is inspiring to read all of the things that Franklin was able to accomplish. I definitely agree with you, Franklin made a huge difference in the world and was he was a wise man indeed.
DeleteUnlike the ABOMINABLE practices that religious people were exercising onto people in order to convert them to christianism. Benjamin Franklin was and still is an amazing figure in history. Benjamin Franklin is a perfect role model of how dedicated we should be and how persistent we should be towards our goals. Franklin was clearly ahead of everyone from his time. Like a chess master, it seems that Franklin had everything planned out before he started doing anything. Although order was not one of his strongest virtues he was able to be proficient at it. Franklin was an exceptional human being showing us how we should always shoot for perfection. Franklin being an extraordinary individual in general, one of the things that bring the best of Franklin was his ability to approach any situation that was presented in front of him. Always judging his own actions and then trying to fix his own bad habits. This is what separated Franklin from the rest of the people from his time. This gave Franklin an advantage, which allowed Franklin to always become better and keep progressing. Franklin would later apply this great practice when it came to his inventions. It is incredible and amazing how much Franklin was able to accomplish on his life time. A person like Franklin can make a huge impact on society and an even a bigger impact if every one of us had the same attitude towards life as Franklin did.
ReplyDeleteHe definitely ahead of his time. He has allowed the world to have many innovations that did not seem possible at that time. He definitely stood out in society and still does till this day.
DeleteYeah I agree with both of you. Franklin was ahead of his time. I also feel that he did open many doors due to all the things he was inventing. Franklin did accomplish many things that to this day we have learned to make it adapt into today's society. Franklin was a founding father because of all the actions that he took during his time period and was recognized.
DeleteI believe Benjamin Franklin was ahead of his time and also a product of his time because he not only thought about inventing things that would make life easier during the era he lived in, but also better for the future. He had a mind that was innovative, which allowed him to invent things like the lightning rods, carriage odometers, and music instruments. Franklin grew up during the time of enlightenment which was a time for man to come up with thoughts which formed ideas for innovations. He was one of many individuals who invented things to better the lives in the colonies. Franklin was a man who stood out heavily during his time because he had quite a few inventions that were successful. No one was quite at Franklins level when came down to being intelligent. His mind and will to succeed in life showed others that success does not come before hard work. It takes a certain type of individual to persevere through adversities. Even with failed inventions, he still kept pressing on. Benjamin Franklin was ahead of his time, a product of his time, and a innovator that inspired people in our time.
ReplyDeleteHe was a very hard worker. it is incredible all the hardships he went through and still was able to succeed. he is a person that should be admired.
DeleteI agree with how you say he is both ahead of his times and a product of his time. Growing up during the Enlightenment surely affected his way of thinking, but you can't deny the great significance of his accomplishments, or the breadth of his study and knowledge. He definitely transcends as one of the top figures of his historical period.
DeleteA person like Benjamin Franklin can drastically change the world. His innovations made lives easier for people in the 1700's. Benjamin Franklin was a hard worker, which is a good role model for people of any era. He created the first fire department, street sweeping service, influenced paper currency, created a stove, improvement on lighting and created the first post office. He also expanded the education system by building a college and by expanding the field of science and writing, especially in his newspaper. There are many other improvements that he created. A person like him made life so much more enjoyable, whereas life before would be ABOMINABLE. The advances that Benjamin Franklin created offered an easier life style for people such as cleaning the streets did not take as long, having better lighting allowed people to stay up longer at night, a stove allowed heat and easier cooking. People like him have advanced society so far that it has allowed the world to have the technology, protection, currency, and knowledge of life. Very few people were life Benjamin Franklin, since he was a man of many talents and very knowledgeable. His belief that advances happen a little bit day by day and not all at once is motivational for people to achieve something little each day and it will create something great one day. This world could use a couple more people like Benjamin Franklin, which could possibly solve some of life’s crises. Maybe our economy would not be ABOMINABLE anymore.
ReplyDeleteI agree. Benjamin Franklin is an admirable person; he was really devoted to the public. All his inventions, findings, and contributions were many for the people's benefits. Benjamin Franklin was far beyond his era.
DeleteI agree! Good job painting a really detailed picture of Benjamin Franklin's immense contributions to society! Nothing about it was abominable in any way!
DeleteI agree, I'm glad he created the stove was created. I get hungry you know? All of those advancements you listed definitely make our lives easier. If he didn't come up with it I wonder if someone else would have.
DeleteI agree, Ben Franklin was very far beyond his days. He had a great impact on society. I can only imagine that had he not existed, where would we be today?
DeleteI think Benjamin Franklin was not a product of his times because his ways of thinking and his beliefs was far beyond his era. Even when he was young, you can see in his autobiography, that as a young man, his intelligence far beyond his age. He excelled in his education. Though he went through many struggles like leaving his family to follow his dreams, he was able to learn many great deals of things, which lead to the many achievements he accomplished. He changed and shaped Philadelphia. He created the first library at Philadelphia, and he was the founder of many colleges such as: college of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania, Dartmouth, Brown, and etc. He also invented many other things such as: a lightening rod, the Franklin’s stove, bifocals, the glass armonica, and etc. Benjamin Franklin believed the glass armonica was his best invention yet. When his wife, Debra, woke up and heard Ben Franklin played the armonica, she assumed “she died and went to heaven.” Benjamin Franklin is someone to be admired and applaud because his inventions have benefited us in many ways like the odometer. He was a man who thought about the future of the public. He always put the public’s needs in front of his needs. He invented many things that benefitted many people’s lives. His devotion to the public also lead to his contribution of establishing the United States to be an independent nation, freed from the British rule. Benjamin Franklin was not a product of his times because his ideas, his beliefs were beyond that time. He was able to do many great things that still benefit us. Without Benjamin Franklin’s inventions, findings, theories, and devotion to the public, our lives now would have been ABOMINABLE!
ReplyDeleteHello Mary Joy, i enjoyed reading your blog entry, Benjamin Franklin's inventions are beyond amazing and this world without them would be ABOMINABLE. Thank to all the Colleges and the public library you mentioned, education have improved. Is incredible how no days we still benefit from his inventions, and all of that thank to a great inventor who followed his dreams and had the intention to improve the future generations (us). Great blog entry!
DeleteYes, without Benjamin Franklin's inventions and findings, life as we know it would have been ABOMINABLE. All is contributions, findings, and inventions benefitted everyone in the long run!
DeleteI agree that without Franklins inventions, the world would not have come as far. His examples were the starting ground for what was to come in the future.
DeleteThe great inventor and scientist Benjamin Franklin is an admirable human who contributed tremendously to the society and to the world in general. Benjamin Franklin was beyond ahead his times, since he was a little kid he was interested in learning new things. Since he was full of knowledge he educated his self at the age of 11, he read numerous books based on grammar, geometry and algebra. He also learned 5 languages by his self. However, Benjamin Franklin was young and a person with such a intelligence, he opened his own printer at the age of 22. This great man contributed enormously with his inventions, such as the iron stove that we use it in an everyday life (improved of curse). Also, one of his favorite inventions “the glass harmonica”, this invention was used by many musicians back in the days, and was used as a distraction from stress. Benjamin Franklin also wanted people to read and learn just like he did, that’s why he opened the first library of Pennsylvania open for everybody in which he created his own ink and paper.
ReplyDeleteAccordingly to the list of virtues he relate in the book, I think if as humans and society we follow this list, everything would be more easy. This is a great list of virtues; I really liked it and it’s a good thing to apply in a personal life to improve our selves.
In this ABOMINABLE era and society, we definitely need more people like Benjamin Franklin, people that are willing to help others and to improve the future generations.
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DeleteBenjamin Franklin was most definitely ahead of his times. There were instances in his autobiography in which he was having a discussion with someone about women’s capability to learn. He appeared to be a proponent for women’s rights because he said they had the capability to learn and engage in educational discussions. Although Franklin did advertise slavery in his papers, he later realized that what he had done was ABOMINABLE. He regretted this and wished for the freedom of slaves. At one point in his autobiography, I had the idea that Franklin was atheist. He then changed to being a deist in another point in his life. George Whitefield was a persuasive preacher; during the Enlightenment, that moved Benjamin’s emotions. He donated money to Whitefield to help set up homes for orphaned children. Benjamin did not believe in a God who interferes with the world. He believed that God created the universe and did not intervene. Compared to the people of his times, he did not attend Sunday sermons because he felt there were matters more important than attending a sermon that might not be true. Many of the people of his times were also converted to Christianity because of Whitefield, but Benjamin continued to be a deist. He realized that he did not need a structured religion in order to take part in good deeds. He also felt that everyone of a different religion was of equal importance in opinions. This demonstrates that Franklin thought differently than other people of his times. He was in a sense more progressive and similar to those people of the 18th and 19th centuries. The fact that Benjamin Franklin is the speaker of his life story is amazing. I really admired how he intended to do good for the people and was so persistent with his dreams of having a print house. Despite him doing nothing but wonderful things for those of his time, he did not expect to make profit from his inventions and did not want to speak highly of himself to other people. For this, I view Benjamin Franklin as a good, hearted man and figure.
ReplyDeleteBenjamin franklin was not only a great inventor, but he was also a perfectionist. Many wonderful inventions and talents grasped Franklin’s attention such as rubbing the tops of wine glasses to perform harmonious melodies. Our former president was an extremely critical thinker who was clearly ahead of his peers. He had taken the same idea of the glass rubbing effect and created a more precise instrument called the Glass Armonica in 1761. Franklins instrument used a foot peddle to change the technique of spinning ones finger around the lids of wine glasses to spinning the wine glasses around ones finger. His invention inspired great composers such as Mozart, but inventing things is just one of the many talents of American leader Benjamin Franklin. His perseverance to spread education shows that he was quite brilliant. During the time of Franklin most people that were attending universities expected to become a religious minister. Franklin promoted education at an academic stand point leading him to establish several universities as well as a debate club and library. Another one of his inventions that is essential today is a pointed metal rod that is placed on the top of buildings to help protect the building from heat damage if lighting strikes. This invention is known as the lighting rod. If the strike occurs near the lightning-rod system, the system will have a very low-resistance path and can then receive a "jump," diverting the strike current to ground before it can do any more damage. After reading the autobiography I was moved because I wasn’t aware of all his accomplishments. I believe that Franklin made multiple differences to our country and truly deserves to have his face on the one hundred dollar bill. Benjamin Franklin’s life should be considered indispensable not only to America but to the entire world because he has leaded us from the ABOMINABLE lifestyles of the uneducated, even before we knew the importance of education.
ReplyDeleteI was not aware of all his accomplishments either. Didn't know he was the reason we had trash clean up people. Good thing huh? Otherwise this world would be pretty . . . ABOMINABLE!
DeleteI agree, he was both an extremely hard working individual and perfectionist. It's amazing how many inventions he created, and the impact they have still to this day.
DeleteBenjamin Franklin was an exceptional man during his time. Benjamin Franklin was a diligent and intelligent individual who strived to help others, and followed whatever his heart desired. He definitely was ahead of his time and what separated him from everyone else was his determination to keep on learning. He was a man who didn't put a limit to what he could achieve. He asked questions about how things work, and then tried to find a solution. An example would be the glass armonica he invented. When he attended a concert in England that consisted of a musician performing melodies on wine glasses, he loved the sound, but wondered if there was a better way to produce the sound. This is what makes him different. He analyzed something he liked, and challenged himself to create something better. Not many people thought like that back then, and not many people think that way today either. It takes a unique individual to take something average, think of a better idea, and then actually putting in the work and time to create it. What intrigues me about Benjamin Franklin was that he was an average person making something happen, and didn't let anything stop him from making his dream become a reality. All his contributions to society as an inventor, scientist, musician, and a founder for the United States is truly remarkable. To think of a world without exceptional people like Benjamin Franklin who devote their time for a better society would just be ABOMINABLE.
ReplyDeleteBenjamin Franklin was an outstanding individual characterized by his knowledge, followed along with his many talents. Franklin was a self-taught scientist who was identified as an "Exemplary of Age of Enlightenment", by many Americans and Europeans. Not only did he care for bettering the lives of those who lived in his era, but also to those in the centuries to come. He wanted others to suffer no longer, African American's for example, Benjamin would run ads for slavery in hopes that it would end. He had a good heart with good intentions for the people. Benjamin Franklin also enjoyed the science of new discoveries in technology and education. Franklin was founder of valuable theories that are useful to us in the world we live in today. He theorized things such as Electricity, Physics, Medicine in which he then invented The Lightening Rod, The Glass Harmonica, and The Franklin Stove. He was with no doubt a person with much talent and enthusiasm. Benjamin believed in higher education, he helped contribute to the discovery of the College of Philadelphia, now know as the University of Pennsylvania, where he set up the first library, along with a few other colleges that were established after. Benjamin also devoted his time for the set up of new street lights, paved roads, and the gathering of trash men to clean up the economy in which they lived in. I think to myself how ABOMINABLE it would have been if Benjamin Franklin had not lived in the era he lived to create and establish all the wonderful things he did.
ReplyDeleteWhat difference does a person like BF make in the world?
ReplyDeleteTo many perhaps Benjamin Franklin was an ABOMINABLE person. Franklin was an idol, some one who invented knew ideas, he thought outside the box. To many, to see a man in that time of age be so powerful with thoughts, to many it scares them and even sometimes they see them as a treat. I think that if i were to live during that time period I would be very intimated by him and all of his great success. Franklin was an inventor, and many people saw the kind of influence he had in society during that time. I mean he even became a president of united states. He believed in what he was doing, working hard. Many people did believe the things he would say, he was very active when the British were trying to take more power from them. His ideas that he had were very successful like with the lighting rod. things like that is what makes him an inventor. Franklin is a person who took risks, personally I am very scared to take risks, I think its more because we lack in confidence, or we are unsure of the outcomes, but i guess that is what it means to take risks. It can either be a good out come or it you can completely fail ABOMINABLY, but the point is to take in what you learn from the experience. I see Franklin as an admirable person, a person who took risks. I think there should be more people, because if we think about it, if there was more people who took risks and all that good stuff there would be more inventions that would help us better ourselves and society. I mean look at one of Franklin's invention that is being used today. The bifocals, they are always being used and it has made many peoples life's way better, its very interesting to see how much an idea that probably at the moment did not seem very realistic in a way it did because he was able to make it happen and now many people are using them every day and it is helping them improve their life styles. I mean if Franklin did not come up with that invention, those people who do use them, not their life would be complicated without them, but it would be difficult to do certain tasks. I think if we did not have people like Franklin we probably would not be inspired to do certain things like taking risks because sometimes they can change society and peoples life's. Franklin did a huge difference in society and his inventions. His changes have made a great impact and will always be remembered.
The difference that a person like Franklin can make in the world is immense; most people hope to have one great accomplishment in his or her lifetime and yet, Franklin was able to achieve multiple meaningful accomplishments in his. Focusing on a few of his accomplishments specifically, one of his most notable endeavors –in my opinion- is the start of a circulating library. The idea that there was not one in the colonies before that time is simply ABOMINABLE, but luckily Franklin was able to remedy this problem and make it possible for the people of the colonies to nurture their minds. Also, I am assuming that thanks to the creation of circulating libraries, many more people were able to become literate. Similar in significance, though not exactly the same, the founding of a college that would later become a university was another of Franklin’s momentous accomplishments. His actions- taking his influence into account- showed the importance that he placed on continuing education and bettering the youth of the nation; this would carry over many years to come in the progression and growth of the country. In the less scholarly and more government-related area he excelled as well. Benjamin Franklin helped build the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution, as well as helping to negotiate the Treaty of Paris. Essentially, Franklin partook in all of the events that resulted in the freedom and growth of the United States of America. This short summary only represents a few of the aspects of Franklin’s fulfilling life, and needless to say, he was able to make a big impact on the world through his many accomplishments.
ReplyDeleteI concur. What Franklin has brought to the table of history is unmatched. He was involved in so much of our country's greatest achievements, down right to being concerned in the local and nation postal service.
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ReplyDeleteI, as most people from this blog, agree that Benjamin Franklin was ahead of this time. The armonica proved to be such a great invention, that world wide known composers have made pieces for the amazing instrument. Benjamin Franklin is a normal guy. He easily can relate to anyone from any time frame. Franklin basically hit on his friend's girl. When she rejected him and Ralph confronted him, he understood and broke away from both of them. He was an ordinary man with an amazing mind. Anyone of us could do the same, transcend our time, if we were patient and think out and beyond. ADOMINABLE.
ReplyDeleteHistorical figures like Benjamin Franklin are definitely few and far-between. I think he is one who stands as proof that people can definitely transcend their historical context. He could be classified as a "jack-of-all-trades". He was a scientist, a politician, a philosopher, an inventor, a musician, and an all-around critical thinker. He could technically be considered "of his time" since he lived during the Enlightenment where people placed more emphasis on rational thought. However, the broad range of his accomplishments is arguably second to none, and for that reason I would consider "ahead of his time" to be an understatement. While reading his autobiography, I found him to be extremely relate-able even in today's world. His emphasis on self-betterment and education, and faith in the abilities of the average man, were virtues that could be considered timeless, and not abominable in any way.
ReplyDeleteWhile I was reading Benjamin Franklin's autobiography I tried to immerse myself in the times. There were no cellphones, no tv, scarce books, contact only by mail, travel by horse/carriage. Lot of what we have today that I don't even realize are luxuries. But it got me thinking if they had none of these things, what would one do? Well without as much technology as we have today I think people would be more inclined to be more productive in their work, possibly centered around it. When I read the autobiography his father really focused on finding a job each of his children enjoyed. Which is great, and I hope everyone would do the same. It let BF and his siblings try out their hand at so many subjects and if they liked it then pushed them to pursue the subject. When he took up a job as an apprentice to his brother who was a printer, it really put him in a situation where he could read as he had access to plenty of books. It helped him improve his writing and learned to persuade people to hear him out. With the way he was brought up it seems to me that he was taught to be ambitious and to want to better himself thanks to his father. His father seemed to be a great influence into instilling his a positive attitude that brought him so far in each of his studies and possibly those virtues he practiced. I think that because of his upbringing and his discipline he truly was a product of his times.
ReplyDeleteI agree with the points that you stated. It's a big eye-opener about not having electronics or an easy way to get around like a car. He was very ahead of his time by making all of that possible. It's really interesting to think about just one man using his knowledge and skills to improve the lives of just the colonies. But, Benjamin Franklin not only improved his present... little did he know that he would also make a remarkable change in the future!
DeleteWhile I do agree with you that there were less distractions at the time, which would put more emphasis on work and daily tasks, I still don't think you are giving enough merit to the accomplishments and thoughtfulness Mr. Franklin imparted. Throughout the book, there are many examples of those who are drunks, unintelligible, or just plain bad as business men. I believe there are always ways of avoiding responsibilty or distracting yourself and that the best course of action is rarely the easiest. He was a frugal and hardworking individual who still had no problem spending his time or money for a cause that he believed in and could change the quality of life for those around him. Although many of his inventions have altered history and life as we know it, his way of thinking and dedication to improvement is what I consider his biggest accomplishment.
DeleteBenjamin Franklin was a very creative and ingenious man. He was so ahead of his time considering the fact that he was a very well educated person and extremely intelligent. I find Benjamin Franklin’s adoration for public service so extraordinary. He consistently dedicated his life within the lines of the development of knowledge. Franklin was sent to grade school to advance and progress his abilities in composition and in mathematics. Still, he was unsuccessful in arithmetic but his writing skills were outstanding. Throughout time, Franklin's skills progressed so much that he became an ABOMINABLE progressive human being. Benjamin considered the development of knowledge as the most valuable and substantial element in a person's life that pushed him to build institutions dedicated to learning all over the colonies. All in all, Benjamin Franklin will forever be a person for students and adults to look up to for inspiration to take the improvement in their education very vigorously and to stimulate students to become more educated and experienced very similar to the human being that made a huge difference in the generations of the communities. Overall, Benjamin Franklin was and will continue to be a remarkable and phenomenal person in history.
ReplyDeleteI do believe that Benjamin Franklin was ahead of his time, if not for the contributions that his influence generated, then for the manifestation of thought that he provoked. After reading his autobiography, what struck me as the most surprising was his ability to self-reflect and judge his own actions, as well as his beliefs in such an impartial way. He was certainly a very ambitious person, even from a young age when he decided that making a move as drastic as leaving home (without even a mention of it to his family or friends) in order to get to New York and begin what he thought was his calling. He believed it was the correct path and such a commitment is admirable. His evaluation of personal actions as well as the way society operated at the time was amazingly unselfish and though he throughout the book reveals himself to be somewhat vain and constantly at work on improving his humility, I can see how hard a task that might be for such an intelligent upstart whose success was widely due to his own efforts and diligence. It is easy to see that he wanted to improve life for everyone in colonies and some the changes were “common sense” improvements such as lights in the streets and paved roads, but others were monumental in changing the way people thought and were educated. By starting the library subscriptions he revolutionized the intellect of an entire class raising it to a level only equaled by higher ups in other parts of the world. His foundations for university and philosophy show that he was a great thinker. He wanted to live a virtuous life which is something that can be respected to this day and his meticulous approach and self-evaluation make me realize that today we tend to live at such a fast pace, there is rarely time taken to reflect. The fact that we, as students, a society, and people are not constantly trying to improve ourselves is ABOMIDABLE. So after this reading it will definitely be a point of emphasis to do right, not necessarily because of religious guidelines or enforcement of law, but because being industrious and helping fellow man is the duty of everyone.
ReplyDeleteBen Franklin was a vey important figure in his time and especially for the U.S. When it came to him creating something or having an idea, he always came out on top. He never let little things get the best of him; he saw mistakes as a learning process and gained from those mistakes. In the video, Franklin attended a performance where the performer created sounds out of water glasses. He then went on to invent the glass harmonica which made very intriguing noise. Ben Franklin is the prime example of what man is capable of. He influnced many people and created many inventions. Franklin stated that anyone could be anything they wanted to be. His theories and inventions would later on be examples of what was to come in the future. I believe that if Franklin had not existed, society would have not come as far as we have today.
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