I am a great friend of public amusements, they keep people from vice

I am a great friend of public amusements, they keep people from vice

Samuel Johnson, the renowned English writer and lexicographer, was a firm believer in the power of public amusements to keep people from vice. Johnson understood the importance of providing the masses with opportunities for entertainment and diversion, as he believed that idle minds were more susceptible to falling into sinful behaviors.

In Johnson's time, public amusements were a popular form of entertainment for people of all social classes. Theaters, circuses, and other forms of entertainment provided an escape from the drudgery of everyday life and allowed people to relax and enjoy themselves. Johnson saw the value in these activities, as he believed that they helped to keep people's minds occupied and prevented them from engaging in immoral behavior.

One of Johnson's most famous quotes on the subject is, "I am a great friend of public amusements, they keep people from vice." This statement reflects his belief that providing people with opportunities for entertainment and enjoyment was essential for maintaining a moral and virtuous society. Johnson understood that people needed outlets for their energy and creativity, and that without these outlets, they were more likely to turn to destructive behaviors.

Johnson's support for public amusements was not just based on a desire to keep people from vice, but also on a belief in the importance of culture and the arts. Johnson was a great lover of literature, theater, and music, and he believed that these forms of entertainment were essential for enriching people's lives and expanding their horizons. He saw public amusements as a way to expose people to new ideas and experiences, and to foster a sense of community and connection among individuals.