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Government Quote by Benjamin Franklin

“Idleness and pride tax with a heavier hand than kings and governments.” quote by Benjamin Franklin
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“Idleness and pride tax with a heavier hand than kings and governments.”

Benjamin Franklin

About This Quote

Source Essay: Poor Richard's Almanack, 1741

Idleness and excessive pride bring harsher consequences than any formal authority.

In simple terms: Laziness and pride hurt more than rulers.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate humility and activity to avoid self‑inflicted hardship.

Themes

morality self‑discipline pride idleness

Mood

reflective didactic

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal development
  • leadership
  • social behavior

Key Concepts

virtue ethics self‑regulation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What habits replace idleness constructively?
  • When does pride become beneficial?
A Different Perspective

Pride can sometimes motivate positive achievement.

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