Beard Quote by Benjamin Franklin
“Notwithstanding my experiments with electricity the thunderbolt continues to fall under our noses and beards; and as for the tyrant, there are a million of us still engaged at snatching away his sceptre.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Letter to Peter Collinson, 1755
Even with scientific progress, natural forces and oppression persist, showing limits of human control.
In simple terms: Science can't stop nature or tyranny.
Key Takeaway
Recognize limits of control.
Themes
science
power
oppression
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- political activism
- environmental policy
- technology ethics
Key Concepts
political philosophy
natural law
Questions to Reflect On
- What forces are beyond our control?
- How do we balance progress with humility?
A Different Perspective
Human effort alone cannot eliminate all threats.
