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Action Quote by Benjamin Franklin

“When confronted with two courses of action I jot down on a piece of paper all the arguments in favor of each one, then on the opposite side I write the arguments against each one. Then by weighing the arguments pro and con and cancelling them out, one against the other, I take the course indicated…” quote by Benjamin Franklin
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“When confronted with two courses of action I jot down on a piece of paper all the arguments in favor of each one, then on the opposite side I write the arguments against each one. Then by weighing the arguments pro and con and cancelling them out, one against the other, I take the course indicated by what remains.”

Benjamin Franklin

About This Quote

He uses a pros‑cons list to objectively compare options, aiming to let the strongest arguments guide decision‑making.

In simple terms: Write pros and cons to decide.

Key Takeaway

Use structured analysis for choices.

Themes

decision‑making logic clarity

Mood

analytical pragmatic

Type

methodical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal decisions
  • business strategy
  • policy formulation
  • risk assessment

Key Concepts

critical thinking cost‑benefit analysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • What criteria weight arguments?
  • How to handle equally balanced options?
A Different Perspective

Complex decisions may need more than simple tallying.

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