The absent are never without fault, nor the present without excuse

The absent are never without fault, nor the present without excuse

Benjamin Franklin, one of the founding fathers of the United States, was known for his wit, wisdom, and practicality. He was a man of many talents, including being a writer, inventor, scientist, and diplomat. Throughout his life, Franklin espoused the importance of personal responsibility and accountability. One of his famous quotes, "The absent are never without fault, nor the present without excuse," reflects his belief in the importance of taking ownership of one's actions and decisions.

In Franklin's view, those who are absent or not present to defend themselves are often seen as at fault because they are not there to explain or justify their actions. This can be applied to various situations, such as in relationships, work, or politics. For example, if someone is absent from a meeting where important decisions are being made, they may be held responsible for any negative outcomes that result from those decisions. Similarly, if a person is absent from a social gathering where they were expected to contribute, they may be seen as lacking in their responsibilities.

On the other hand, Franklin also believed that those who are present should not make excuses for their actions or behavior. Instead, they should take responsibility for their choices and accept the consequences that come with them. This idea of personal accountability was central to Franklin's philosophy of self-improvement and moral virtue.