Objections Quote by Benjamin Franklin
““The objections and reluctances I met with in soliciting the subscriptions, made me soon feel the impropriety of presenting one's self as the proposer of any useful project, that might be suppos'd to raise one's reputation in the smallest degree above that of one's neighbours, when one has need of their assistance to accomplish that project.””
About This Quote
Source Letter: 1750, to a fellow merchant
Seeking subscriptions, Franklin felt uneasy promoting a project that could boost his reputation while needing others’ help.
In simple terms: Self‑promotion feels improper when relying on others’ assistance.
Key Takeaway
Be modest when requesting help.
Themes
humility
reputation
collaboration
Mood
thoughtful
cautious
Type
advisory
ethical
When to use this quote
- business proposals
- community projects
- grant applications
Key Concepts
social ethics
self‑interest
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you ask for aid without seeming self‑serving?
- What strategies preserve humility?
A Different Perspective
May limit persuasive outreach.
