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Franklin helped to create the American Philosophical Society from "summary" of Benjamin Franklin by Walter Isaacson
In Franklin's time, there were no formal institutions for the pursuit of knowledge and the exchange of ideas in America. He believed that such institutions were vital for the progress of society. So, he took the initiative to establish one himself. The American Philosophical Society was founded by Franklin in 1743, with the goal of promoting useful knowledge in the British colonies. It was the first learned society in America, and it played a crucial role in fostering intellectual exchange and scientific inquiry. Franklin saw the society as a means to bring together like-minded individuals who were interested in the advancement of knowledge. He envisioned a community of scholars, scientists, and thinkers who would collaborate and share their ideas for the betterment of society. The society quickly attracted leading intellectuals of the time, including Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Alexander Hamilton. Through their contributions and discussions, the society became a hub of intellectual activity and a driving force behind the spread of knowledge in America. Franklin's vision for the society was not only to facilitate the exchange of ideas but also to encourage practical innovation and research. He saw knowledge as a tool for progress and believed that by sharing information and insights, society could advance in all areas of life. The American Philosophical Society became a model for other learned societies in America and set the stage for the development of academic and scientific institutions in the country. Franklin's legacy in founding the society continues to inspire the pursuit of knowledge and the exchange of ideas in America to this day.
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