Boys Quote by Benjamin Franklin
“In 1736 I lost one of my sons, a fine boy of four years old, by the small-pox, taken in the common way. I long regretted bitterly, and still regret that I had not given it to him by inoculation. This I mention for the sake of parents who omit that operation, on the supposition that they should never forgive themselves if a child died under it; my example showing that the regret may be the same either way, and that, therefore, the safer should be chosen.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Personal correspondence on smallpox inoculation, 1736
The writer regrets not having his son inoculated against smallpox, urging parents to choose the safer medical option despite fear of potential regret.
In simple terms: Regret of avoiding inoculation; choose safer health measures.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize preventive medicine.
Themes
health
family
risk
decision‑making
Mood
reflective
empathetic
Type
personal
historical
When to use this quote
- childcare
- public health campaigns
- family medical decisions
- historical medical practices
Key Concepts
inoculation
medical ethics
parental responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- What factors influence parental health decisions?
- How does historical regret shape modern medical choices?
A Different Perspective
Some may view inoculation as risky or unnecessary.
