Compare Robert Fulghum’s list of things learned in kindergarten (see the Connection on page 72) to Franklin’s list of virtues. Which list do you think would be more useful to people today? In general, how does Franklin’s scheme for moral perfection compare with the self-help books available today?
they both give you advice on how to handle things in life.
To compare Robert Fulghum's list of things learned in kindergarten and Franklin's list of virtues, we can first look at the content of each list.
Fulghum's list, as mentioned in his book "All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten," includes simple yet meaningful lessons such as sharing, being kind to others, cleaning up after oneself, and being aware of one's surroundings. It emphasizes foundational values and behaviors for building positive relationships and living harmoniously.
On the other hand, Benjamin Franklin's scheme for moral perfection, outlined in his autobiography, consists of thirteen virtues: temperance, silence, order, resolution, frugality, industry, sincerity, justice, moderation, cleanliness, tranquility, chastity, and humility. Franklin devised a system where he focused on one virtue each week and tracked his progress, aiming to cultivate virtue and personal character.
Now, moving on to the usefulness of each list in today's society is subjective, as it depends on individual perspectives and needs. However, Fulghum's kindergarten list stands out as more directly applicable to everyday life situations and interpersonal relationships. It provides simple, practical wisdom that can be easily embraced and implemented by people of all ages.
Franklin's scheme of moral perfection, while valuable, can sometimes seem more idealistic and outdated in its language. The virtues he outlines are important moral principles, but they may not be as easily translated into tangible actions for many individuals today.
As for comparing Franklin's scheme with self-help books available today, it is important to note that Franklin's work predates the genre of modern self-help books. Franklin's approach focuses on personal self-improvement through cultivating virtues, while many contemporary self-help books offer a wider range of strategies and advice for personal development, success, and happiness. These books often provide step-by-step methods to address specific areas of life, such as career, relationships, and mental well-being.
In summary, both Fulghum's list of things learned in kindergarten and Franklin's scheme for moral perfection have their merits. Fulghum's list may be more immediately practical and applicable to everyday life situations, while Franklin's scheme offers a systematic approach to personal character development. The usefulness of each list depends on an individual's needs and preferences. Additionally, Franklin's scheme differs from modern self-help books as it focuses solely on personal character development rather than addressing a wider range of life areas.
To compare Robert Fulghum's list of things learned in kindergarten and Benjamin Franklin's list of virtues, we can analyze their different approaches to life lessons and their potential usefulness in today's world.
Robert Fulghum's list of things learned in kindergarten, which includes concepts like sharing, being kind, and playing fair, emphasize fundamental values that are typically instilled in children at a young age. These teachings focus on promoting empathy, respect, and basic social skills, all of which contribute to positive interpersonal relationships and harmonious communities. Fulghum's list is popular because it reminds adults to uphold these simple yet essential values, as they often reflect the principles that are foundational to a successful and fulfilling life.
On the other hand, Benjamin Franklin's list of virtues outlines his personal quest for moral perfection. Franklin identified thirteen virtues, such as temperance, frugality, and humility, that he believed were essential for leading a righteous life. His approach emphasizes self-discipline and self-improvement, reflecting his belief in continuous personal growth.
When considering which list would be more useful to people today, it's important to recognize that both approaches have their merits. Fulghum's list of basic life lessons promotes harmonious social interactions and focuses on the greater good, which is especially valuable in diverse and interconnected societies today. These teachings reinforce the importance of empathy, kindness, and fairness in our everyday lives.
On the other hand, Franklin's scheme for moral perfection aligns more closely with the self-help books available today. Like many self-help books, Franklin's approach encourages individuals to reflect on their behavior and make conscious efforts to improve themselves. However, it is important to note that Franklin's list of virtues may be seen as rigid and lofty ideals that can be challenging to achieve in today's complex world. Some critics argue that such an intense focus on personal success and perfection may lead to self-centeredness or feelings of inadequacy if not approached with balance and flexibility.
Ultimately, the usefulness of each approach depends on individual preferences and circumstances. Fulghum's list of life lessons from kindergarten offers practical principles for building positive relationships and contributing to a cohesive society. Franklin's scheme for moral perfection aligns more with personal growth and self-improvement, emphasizing the importance of discipline and reflection. By understanding the main principles of both lists and considering their applicability to our own lives, we can incorporate valuable lessons into our daily routines and strive for a balanced and fulfilling life.
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