Atheist Quote by Benjamin Franklin
“My dear friend, do not imagine that I am vain enough to ascribe our success [Revolution] to any superiority . . . If it had not been for the justice of our cause, and the consequent interposition of Providence, in which we had faith, we must have been ruined. If I had ever before been an atheist, I should now have been convinced of the being and government of a Deity!”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Correspondence, 1787, Benjamin Franklin to a colleague
Franklin attributes success to moral cause and divine providence, suggesting that without justice and faith, failure would ensue.
In simple terms: Success depends on justice and faith in a higher power.
Recognize the role of ethics and belief in outcomes.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political leadership
- social movements
- personal reflection
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does belief shape your perception of success?
- Can moral cause be separated from outcomes?
Overemphasis on providence may ignore human agency and practical factors.