Candle Quote by Benjamin Franklin
![“I say it is impossible that so sensible a people [citizens of Paris], under such circumstances, should have lived so long by the smoky, unwholesome, and enormously expensive light of candles, if they had really known that they might have had as much pure light of the sun for nothing.” quote by Benjamin Franklin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/75d/benjamin-franklin-65_candle_i-say-it-is-impossible-that-so-sensible_2686132.jpg)
“I say it is impossible that so sensible a people [citizens of Paris], under such circumstances, should have lived so long by the smoky, unwholesome, and enormously expensive light of candles, if they had really known that they might have had as much pure light of the sun for nothing.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Poor Richard's Almanack, 1748
Franklin critiques reliance on inefficient, costly lighting when natural sunlight is free and healthier.
In simple terms: People waste money on candles instead of using free sunlight.
Key Takeaway
Embrace natural light to save money and health.
Themes
efficiency
health
economics
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
historical
advice
When to use this quote
- home lighting
- urban planning
- public health campaigns
- environmental design
Key Concepts
energy consumption
public health
cost saving
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies transition to more sustainable lighting?
- What barriers exist to using natural light?
A Different Perspective
May ignore practicality of modern lighting needs in some contexts.
