Benjamin Franklin's autobiography, completed by Mark and Jo Ann Skousen, offers a comprehensive account of his life and career. It covers his early years in Boston, his rise as a printer and publisher in Philadelphia, and his significant contributions to American science, politics, and diplomacy. The completed version extends beyond Franklin's original manuscript, incorporating additional letters and documents to provide a more complete picture of his life. It details his involvement in the American Revolution, his diplomatic missions to France, and his role in shaping the young nation. The autobiography remains a valuable source for understanding Franklin's character, ideas, and impact on American history.
Mark Skousen's "The Greatest American" offers a compelling biography of Benjamin Franklin, highlighting his multifaceted contributions to American society. The book explores Franklin's remarkable career as a scientist, inventor, diplomat, and statesman, showcasing his intellectual curiosity and entrepreneurial spirit. Skousen delves into Franklin's personal life, acknowledging his contradictions and complexities, while emphasizing his commitment to public service and ethical capitalism. The narrative challenges traditional interpretations of Franklin's legacy, presenting a nuanced portrait of a truly exceptional figure. Ultimately, the book celebrates Franklin's enduring impact on American history and his enduring relevance to contemporary society.
Joyce Chaplin's "The Franklin Stove: An Unintended American Revolution" explores Benjamin Franklin's iconic invention and its broader implications. The book delves into the stove's design, its impact on American society, and Franklin's scientific inquiries related to heat, climate, and atmospheric phenomena. Chaplin reveals Franklin's innovative approach to problem-solving and his insightful observations about climate change, deforestation, and air pollution. The book offers a fresh perspective on Franklin's multifaceted contributions, highlighting his role as an inventor, scientist, and diplomat. It underscores the interconnectedness of technological advancements, scientific understanding, and societal challenges.
The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin is a meticulously researched biography that vividly portrays Franklin's transformation from a penniless runaway to a highly influential figure in American history. Drawing on previously unpublished letters and other sources, H. W. Brands explores Franklin's multifaceted life as a diplomat, scientist, philosopher, and statesman, emphasizing his crucial role in securing French support for American independence.
Published in 1776, 'The Wealth of Nations' is Adam Smith's magnum opus that laid the groundwork for modern economics. The book critiques mercantilist economic theories and introduces the concept of the 'invisible hand,' which describes how individual self-interest leads to societal benefit. It emphasizes the division of labor, the accumulation of capital, and the importance of free markets. Smith argues that a nation's wealth is not measured by its gold and silver reserves but by the stream of goods and services it produces. The book also outlines the core functions of government, such as maintaining defense, enforcing civil law, and promoting education, while advocating for limited government intervention in market activities.
As a direct descendant of Benjamin Franklin, the Chapman University economist Mark Skousen might be a bit biased. That said, Skousen makes an entertaining case in his new book, The Greatest American, for Franklin as being the most innovative and versatile of the Founding Fathers. Skousen acknowledges Franklin's contradictions: his transition from slave owner to abolitionist, his notoriety as a ladies' man and, above all, his moral philosophy of deploying his private wealth for the public good. What we are left with is the most human and least overtly political of all the Founding Fathers.
Five Key Takeaways
* Versatile Genius: Franklin excelled in numerous fields, with Skousen identifying 22 different careers including printing, science, diplomacy, and civic leadership, making him uniquely accomplished among American historical figures.
* Ethical Capitalism: Franklin represents an ideal capitalist model who made his fortune by age 42, then dedicated the rest of his life to public service, establishing libraries, hospitals, and other civic institutions.
* Personal Evolution: Franklin demonstrated willingness to change his views, most notably transitioning from slave owner to becoming the first president of Pennsylvania's abolitionist society.
* Political Pragmatism: Franklin defied easy political categorization, valuing practical solutions over ideology and warning against concentrated power with his famous quote: "a republic, if you can keep it."
* Complex Character: Despite his accomplishments, Franklin had notable flaws, including nepotism and his reputation as a "ladies' man," creating a complicated legacy that transcends simple hero worship.
Mark Skousen holds the Doti-Spogli Chair of Free Enterprise at Chapman University in California. As an eighth-generation direct descendant of Benjamin Franklin, he has had a lifelong interest in the “grandfather” of our nation. Dr. Skousen’s career has often followed that of his illustrious ancestor, as a publisher, author, financial advisor, teacher, father, public servant, and world traveler. In 2006, he and his wife, Jo Ann, compiled and edited The Compleated Autobiography by Benjamin Franklin, covering the remainder of his career, 1757–1790 (published by Regnery History).
Named as one of the "100 most connected men" by GQ magazine, Andrew Keen is amongst the world's best known broadcasters and commentators. In addition to presenting the daily KEEN ON show, he is the host of the long-running How To Fix Democracy interview series. He is also the author of four prescient books about digital technology: CULT OF THE AMATEUR, DIGITAL VERTIGO, THE INTERNET IS NOT THE ANSWER and HOW TO FIX THE FUTURE. Andrew lives in San Francisco, is married to Cassandra Knight, Google's VP of Litigation & Discovery, and has two grown children.
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