Skip to content

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…” quote by Benjamin Franklin
Download Open image
“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!”

Benjamin Franklin

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.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the role of ethics and belief in outcomes.

Themes

justice faith divine providence humility

Mood

reflective thoughtful historical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • political leadership
  • social movements
  • personal reflection
  • historical analysis

Key Concepts

theology political philosophy ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does belief shape your perception of success?
  • Can moral cause be separated from outcomes?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on providence may ignore human agency and practical factors.

2.1 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Benjamin Franklin

Explore all 1,692 Benjamin Franklin quotes

More Atheist quotes

Browse all 2,434 Atheist quotes