Thirteen Virtues

Article V

At age 20, Benjamin Franklin wrote a list of thirteen virtues he would practice for the rest of his life: temperance, silence, order, resolution, frugality, industry, sincerity, justice, moderation, cleanliness, tranquility, chastity, and humility. This blues-funk track channels Franklin's belief that self-governance starts with governing yourself. The founders didn't just design a government -- they designed a standard for the citizens who would run it.

For families, classrooms, and anyone who listens with curiosity.

1. 1.

   Why did Franklin believe personal virtue was connected to the health of the republic?

2. 2.

   Which of the thirteen virtues do you think is hardest to practice consistently?

3. 3.

   How does self-discipline in private life relate to self-governance in public life?

4. 4.

   If you wrote your own list of virtues, what would be on it?