The Role Of Religion In Benjamin Franklin's Autobiography

In Benjamin Franklin’s autobiography, he raises one of the biggest challenges that many have when it comes to faith. One of the biggest dilemmas that people face when balancing their beliefs is the determination of how much of life is defined by God, versus how much is a result what we do or do not do? The concept of self-reliance minimizes the role of God and asserts that people make their own path in life. Part I of Benjamin Franklin's Autobiography tells a portion of the story of his life and dives into his thoughts on religion and self-reliance. His autobiography spans the different experiences and events that occurred in his life, gives readers insight into his personal thoughts on different matters, and provides an insider view on the shifts in mindset that Franklin experiences. One of the major changes that occur is Franklin's view on religion and self-accreditation. The beginning of the piece focuses more on faith and trusting that God has a defined plan for each of us and asserting that our life and the events we experience have been predefined. As the story goes on, there is a shift away …show more content…
As you first begin to read this segment, it seems as if Benjamin Franklin is going to be pushed into doing something that he hates for the rest of his life, or that he is going to go against his father and pursue a life at sea. It is only when you read further that the unexpected, third scenario comes into play. Franklin's original negative mindset and attitude toward the business is changed when he sees the beauty of the work. This is a symbolic shift in mindset because it results in his change, moving it away from religion, towards self-reliance. While Franklin might not have noticed it at the time, the lifestyle that his father pressured him into was crucial in forming the go-getter and self-made man that Franklin is known to