Portrait of Oxford

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN'S VIEWS & QUOTES ON EDUCATION

© History Oasis

A few quotes on education by Benjamin Franklin:

"An investment in knowledge pays the best interest."
"Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn."
"The only thing more expensive than education is ignorance."
"If a man empties his purse into his head, no man can take it away from him. An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest."
"Without continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement, and success have no meaning."
"The more one knows, the more one can do. The more one can do, the more one ought to do."
"An investment in knowledge pays the best dividends."
"An investment in knowledge pays the best interest. Knowledge is the treasure of a wise man. Investment in knowledge always pays the best interest."

THE ZEAL FOR EDUCATION

A portrait of Benjamin Franklin
© History Oasis

Like a riverboat captain guiding his steamboat down the mighty Mississippi, Benjamin Franklin navigated the waters of education with steadfast determination and relentless passion.

He often extolled the virtues of a fine education and the benefits it could bring to both the individual and society at large in his writings.

An ardent advocate for education, Mr. Franklin played a pivotal role in the establishment of several esteemed academic institutions, most notably the University of Pennsylvania.

In the spirit of the great riverboat, Franklin's dedication to the promotion and accessibility of education created waves that continue to ripple through the annals of history.

BEN FRANKLIN'S ESTEEMED CREATIONS

The school that became the University of Pennsylvania
© History Oasis

The American Philosophical Society and the University of Pennsylvania are but two examples of the fine organizations that Benjamin Franklin helped create.

The University of Pennsylvania, the eldest and most distinguished of these establishments, was founded in the year 1740. Franklin sat on the university's board of trustees and played a crucial role in its enduring success by contributing significantly to its academic programs.

He also opened his purse to assist in the construction of some of its first buildings.

In the year 1743, Franklin and a group of like-minded visionaries established the American Philosophical Organization—a learned society dedicated to the advancement of scholarly and scientific research.

As the first president of this esteemed organization, Franklin's leadership had a profound impact on the world of science and academia. He generously supported the society's expansion and success, both financially and intellectually.

Headquartered in the bustling city of Philadelphia, the American Philosophical Society boasts a long and storied history of fostering intellectual curiosity and innovation.

Some of the most celebrated intellectuals, scholars, and scientists in American history have been counted among its ranks.

Today, the society continues to organize and host lectures on a diverse array of subjects related to science and scholarship.

Additionally, it sponsors conferences, workshops, and other events aimed at furthering knowledge and understanding.

The society also publishes various academic publications and books and offers scholarships and fellowships to deserving individuals.

Furthermore, the society operates a museum and library, which house a vast assortment of historical and scientific items and records. The library's extensive collection of books, manuscripts, and other materials prove invaluable to scholars and researchers—while the museum's assortment of scientific instruments and artifacts provide a fascinating glimpse into the history of science.

Franklin's influence extended beyond these two illustrious organizations to include the Library Company of Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Contributionship for the Insurance of Houses from Loss by Fire.

These groups, too, devoted themselves to advancing education and aiding the citizens of Philadelphia in their pursuit of knowledge.

Thanks to Franklin's tireless efforts, Philadelphia blossomed into a center of scholarship and intellectual research in the 18th century.

A COMPREHENSIVE VIEW OF FRANKLIN'S ENDURING CONTRIBUTIONS TO EDUCATION

Young Benjamin Franklin attending school
© History Oasis

Benjamin Franklin was a multifaceted individual who left an indelible mark on American society and culture.

As a key figure in the American Enlightenment and one of the founding fathers of the United States, Franklin's legacy is vast and varied.

He was a polymath, excelling as a writer, scientist, inventor, statesman, and philanthropist.

Among his many interests, education held a special place in Franklin's heart. His significant role in the formation of various educational institutions, most notably the American Philosophical Society and the University of Pennsylvania, speaks volumes about his commitment to advancing the value of education.

He fervently believed in the importance of learning and self-improvement, which he shared through his writings and actions.

Owing to Franklin's efforts, Philadelphia emerged as a hub of study and intellectual curiosity in the 18th century.

The institutions and organizations he established continue to carry on his legacy as a champion of education, shaping the minds of countless generations.

His guiding principles have not only stood the test of time but continue to inspire and motivate people across the globe.

Franklin's words of encouragement and the institutions he helped build serve as guiding beacons for those who seek the transformative power of education.

Next