America Reimagined - Benjamin Franklin: A Pragmatic Advocate for Civic Responsibility in America

Benjamin Franklin was inarguably one of the most influential figures in early American history, and his views on the potential of America, its government, and its people were shaped by both his experiences and his vision for the future. As a Founding Father, Franklin, who had a profound impact on the development of the United States government, articulated ideas that reflected a blend of optimism, pragmatism, and an understanding of human nature.

Views on American Government

Franklin's strongest views about American government were rooted in his belief in a balanced system that would prevent tyranny while promoting liberty. He was a proponent of democratic principles but acknowledged the complexities of human nature. Franklin believed that a government should be formed with checks and balances to ensure that no single entity could dominate or infringe upon the rights of its citizens. He famously cautions us when he stated, "A republic, if you can keep it," highlighting the importance of civic engagement and responsibility in maintaining democratic governance. His quote is best considered within the context of his September 17th, 1787 address made to George Washington, then President of the Constitutional Convention, and the selected representatives from the American Colonies. An address that demonstrated great pragmatism and humility. Traits we should be mindful of and not often found among our representation today. Here is a link to an article that includes Franklin’s speech and describes the discussion and debate at the convention well:  https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/constitutionalconvention-september17.htm

In Franklin's vision, the government was to be a servant of the people, reflecting their will while safeguarding individual liberties. He was deeply skeptical of absolute power,

whether it came from monarchy or an overly centralized government. His advocacy for a federal system indicated his belief that local governance could better address the needs of diverse communities. Franklin argued for a government that would be responsive to the needs of its citizens, emphasizing that its legitimacy derived from the consent of the people, and in no other way. It’s likely Franklin may not have been a fan of the advent of Popularism we suffer from today, but then he again, his own popularity undoubtedly proceeded, and served him well.

Expectations of Prosperity and Hardship

Franklin was both an optimist and a realist regarding America's future. He foresaw immense potential for prosperity due to the nation's vast resources, fertile land, and the industriousness of its people. He believed that America had the capacity to become a beacon of hope and opportunity. His experiences as a successful printer, inventor, and diplomat allowed him to appreciate the value of hard work, innovation, and education. He famously wrote "God helps those who help themselves," encapsulating his belief in self-reliance and initiative as keys to success.

However, Franklin was not blind to the challenges that lay ahead. He understood that the path to prosperity would be fraught with difficulties, including economic disparities, regional conflicts, and social injustices. He was particularly concerned about the potential for internal divisions, especially between the northern and southern states, which could threaten national unity. Today’s America would evidently not be a surprise for him. Franklin recognized the delicate balance between liberty and order, warning that unchecked freedom could lead to chaos if individuals acted solely in their self-interest without regard for the common good.

Ideals for the New Country

Franklin's ideals for the new country were rooted in the principles of Enlightenment thought, emphasizing reason, science, and the importance of education. He believed that an informed citizenry was essential for the success of the republic. His establishment of the first public library and the University of Pennsylvania reflected his commitment to education as a means of fostering civic virtue and an enlightened population. Franklin argued that knowledge and understanding were crucial for individuals to make informed decisions and participate meaningfully in governance. Education was to be a pillar of government’s responsibility.

Moreover, Franklin championed the idea of social responsibility. He believed that citizens should actively contribute to the welfare of their communities. His involvement in initiatives such as the founding of volunteer fire departments and hospitals underscored his commitment to collective well-being for everyone. He envisioned a society where individuals not only pursued their own interests but also considered the impact of their actions on others.

Franklin's views also included a strong emphasis on tolerance and diversity. He recognized the value of different perspectives and backgrounds, advocating for a society that embraced pluralism. His correspondence with various religious and cultural groups illustrated his belief in the importance of dialogue and mutual respect among differing opinions. He often warned against the dangers of fanaticism and intolerance, urging Americans to cultivate understanding and empathy. Americans would do well to heed Franklin’s warnings and urgings.

Benjamin Franklin's views on America encompassed a strong belief in the potential of its government and its people. He envisioned a republic that balanced freedom with responsibility, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement, education, and social responsibility. Franklin understood that while prosperity was within reach, the nation would face significant challenges that required collective effort and cooperation. His ideals laid the groundwork for a society that valued liberty, diversity, and the pursuit of knowledge, shaping the trajectory of the United States as it emerged as a new nation. Though it may seem otherwise at times in American society today, Franklin's legacy endures as a testament to the vision and values for the potential of America. 

It’s important Americans don’t lose sight of our real potential. As a pragmatist, it’s evident Franklin knew the value of two great pillars of democracy - discussion and compromise - and apparently excelled at both with a profound focus on civic responsibilities (see Franklin’s speech in the link above). Unfortunately, it is appearing America is losing its way toward the real potential as our representation in government more often trade discussion for accusation and compromise for mandate. American government has marginalized its civic responsibilities in favor of divisive, combative narratives that instill fear to motivate support.

Which makes it not difficult to imagine Ben Franklin on the floor of Congress today imploring all take heed that the first American Dream is to be “a democratic Republic, if we can keep it.”