Benjamin Franklin Quotes

"The progressive development of man is vitally dependent on invention. It is the most important product of his creative brain."

"I do not think there is any thrill that can go through the human heart like that felt by the inventor as he sees some creation of the brain unfolding to success."

"Our first endeavors are purely instinctive, promptings of an imagination vivid and undisciplined."

"As I uttered these inspiring words the idea came like a flash of lightning and in an instant the truth was revealed."

"Every effort under compulsion demands a sacrifice of life-energy. I never paid such a price. On the contrary, I have thrived on my thoughts."

"Originality thrives in seclusion free of outside influences beating upon us to cripple the creative mind."

"Be alone — that is the secret of invention; be alone, that is when ideas are born."

"The mind is sharper and keener in seclusion and uninterrupted solitude."

"The scientific man does not aim at an immediate result. He does not expect that his advanced ideas will be readily taken up."

"His work is like that of the planter — for the future. His duty is to lay the foundation for those who are to come, and point the way."

"Let the future tell the truth, and evaluate each one according to his work and accomplishments."

"The present is theirs; the future, for which I have really worked, is mine."

"Our virtues and our failings are inseparable, like force and matter. When they separate, man is no more."

"The desire that guides me in all I do is the desire to harness the forces of nature to the service of mankind."