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Would thou confound thy enemy, be good thyself.

“Would thou confound thy enemy, be good thyself.” quote by Benjamin Franklin
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“Would thou confound thy enemy, be good thyself.”

Benjamin Franklin

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Treat others well and you’ll protect yourself from retaliation.

In simple terms: Goodness shields you from enemies.

Key Takeaway

Self‑preservation through kindness.

Themes

ethics self‑interest social harmony

Mood

thoughtful optimistic

Type

proverb maxim

When to use this quote

  • conflict resolution
  • team leadership

Key Concepts

reciprocity moral psychology

Practical Applications

  • practice empathy in negotiations

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can kindness ever be exploited?
  • When does self‑interest conflict with altruism?
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