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Certain death Quote by Benjamin Franklin

“...but in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” quote by Benjamin Franklin
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““...but in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.””

Benjamin Franklin

About This Quote

Source Speech: “The American Crisis” (1776)

Only death and taxes are guaranteed; everything else is uncertain.

In simple terms: Death and taxes are certain.

Key Takeaway

Plan for the inevitable.

Themes

certainty inevitability finance

Mood

pragmatic serious

Type

philosophical practical

When to use this quote

  • budgeting
  • long‑term planning
  • risk assessment

Key Concepts

economic theory philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you prepare for inevitable costs?
  • What does certainty mean to you?
A Different Perspective

Taxes can change with policy.

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