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SOUTH DAKOTA
SCHOOL OF MINES
& TECHNOLOGY
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Journal Entry One
Benjamin Franklin was a very versatile man, able to wear the hats of a scientist, an author, as we as a politician. None of these guises takes precedence over another, but I really am intrigued by Franklin’s ability to write. Not only could Franklin write in a manner that was recognized as superior by his peer community, and is still recognized as outstanding today.
The real beauty associated with the writings of Benjamin Franklin, to me, lies in his ability to discuss topics that mattered. It didn’t matter if the topic was considered taboo or not, as Franklin never seemed to scoff at the chance to put his idea’s to paper, as unpopular as they might be. My favorite example of this is illustrated by his piece entitled “Old Mistresses Apologue.”
After reading this piece I was truly able to understand how applicable the work of Benjamin Franklin is to modern life. Franklin wrote “Old Mistresses Apologue” as a recommendation for a friend. He insisted that marriage was the ideal way to go about fraternizing with a woman, but if no marriage was present, or immanent, perhaps an older mistress is more desirable.
Franklin then proceeds to outline 8 points as to why an older mistress is more desirable, if no marriage is immanent. This to me shows an incredible foresight on the part of Franklin, as the prospect of not being married, during his time, was considered on a parallel with heresy. In today’s modern world, his essay would not only be considered insightful, but I believe that many individuals would take his advice. Quite a feet for a man that lived over two-hindered years ago.
Contact: Patrick Rich
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| Last Modified: 10/29/2001 |
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