FRANKLIN READING GUIDE...book due APRIL 16TH

You will not turn these questions in, but they should guide your reading and aid your understanding of this book. The more specific page numbers you write down, the better our discussion will be.

1. Describe the tone of this autobiography. Point to examples of Franklin’s tone sounding arrogant. Point to examples of Franklin’s humility.

2.     How would you describe young Ben's attitude toward education, work, and financial success?  Give an example or two to illustrate your answer.

3.     In Part 3 of the Autobiography Franklin reflects on the problems encountered when governments are in the hands of people who pursue their own private interests at the expense of the public good.  What solution does he advocate?  How realistic do you think it is? 

4.     Give some examples of how Franklin spends his time making society better. Why do you think he does this? What is the purpose of the Junto club?

5.     Give some examples of how Franklin spends time trying to improve himself.

6.     What was Franklin’s daily life like?

7.     Describe Franklin’s religious beliefs. What does the passage about George Whitefield say about Franklin’s view of religion?

8.     And finally, do you think he was right in recognizing the tendency of politicians to seek after their own interest at the expense of the public good?  Can you cite examples of such behavior in our current state, local, and national government?

9.     Can values be taught in schools?  Should they be?  Is it possible to agree on a single list of “virtues”?