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Honest Quote by Benjamin Franklin

“nothing was useful which was not honest.” quote by Benjamin Franklin
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““nothing was useful which was not honest.””

Benjamin Franklin

About This Quote

Source Letter: Personal Correspondence, 1750

Honesty is the foundation of usefulness; without truth, nothing serves.

In simple terms: Honesty makes things useful.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize truth in actions.

Themes

honesty usefulness integrity

Mood

serious thoughtful

Type

historical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • business
  • relationships
  • policy

Key Concepts

Ethics philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is honesty harmful?
  • How to balance truth and diplomacy?
A Different Perspective

Sometimes tact requires omission.

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