“Marriage is the most natural state of man, and… the state in which you will find solid happiness.”
- January 17, 1706 – April 17, 1790
- American
- Polymath, Founding Father of the United States, Inventor, Diplomat, Writer
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Quote
“Marriage is the most natural state of man, and… the state in which you will find solid happiness.”
Explanation
In this quote, Benjamin Franklin presents marriage as a foundational and fulfilling condition of human life. By calling it the “most natural state of man,” he suggests that forming a lifelong partnership is aligned with our deepest instincts and social needs. The second part—“the state in which you will find solid happiness”—emphasizes that while other pleasures may be fleeting, lasting contentment and emotional stability are often found within the bonds of marriage.
Franklin, though often humorous and candid about the challenges of domestic life, also recognized the importance of companionship, mutual support, and moral grounding that marriage can provide. His Enlightenment-era view of happiness valued not indulgence but virtue, balance, and enduring relationships. This quote reflects his belief that personal fulfillment is rooted not just in individual achievement, but in meaningful human connection.
In today’s world—where views on marriage continue to evolve—Franklin’s sentiment still resonates with many. While acknowledging that not all marriages bring happiness, the quote affirms the potential of a well-matched, committed partnership to offer deep, reliable joy and shared purpose. It is a reminder that true happiness often grows from stability, trust, and love cultivated over time.
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