In an insightful exploration of America’s historical and contemporary societal dynamics, I immersed myself in the lifestyle of the Founding Fathers, attempting to gain a deeper understanding of their principles and philosophies. This experience was not merely about adopting their attire or technology; it involved engaging in the very ideals they championed. I utilized candles for light, quill pens for writing, and even muskets as a nod to the historical backdrop against which these pivotal figures operated. This journey has inspired me to share the lessons gleaned from their era and their teachings in a series of articles, with this piece marking the initial installment.
Among the many visionary leaders of early America, Benjamin Franklin stands out as my favorite. Franklin was not only an accomplished writer and political thinker but also an innovative inventor—his creativity even extended to devising swim fins. What truly underscores my admiration for Franklin, however, is his profound commitment to civil discourse. In the formative days of the United States, he initiated a social organization known as the Junto, a gathering of men who convened every Friday for deep discussions centered on self-improvement and national enhancement. This group emphasized a “spirit of inquiry,” advocating for questioning rather than contention, a principle I sought to uphold during my year of constitutional living.
In an effort to manifest the Founders’ vision of open, civil dialogue, I hosted an 18th-century-style dinner party in my home. The ambiance was authentic, with candlelight illuminating our meals as we feasted on hearty beef stew infused with cloves, a spice favored by early Americans. To elevate the evening further, we savored Martha Washington’s famous rum punch, marking the occasion with a toast rooted in history: “To freedom from mobs as well as kings.” However, the essence of the gathering transcended the culinary delights; it lay in the diverse assembly of guests I invited. Participants represented various ideological spectrums, including conservatives, libertarians, moderates, and progressives, creating a fertile ground for meaningful exchange.
The dinner was designed not as a battleground for contrasting viewpoints, but rather as a collaborative effort to solve a complex puzzle: understanding the Constitution and the essence of America. We challenged each other with thought-provoking inquiries, exploring the foundations of our beliefs and contemplating the evidence that might reshape our perspectives. Throughout the evening, a shared commitment emerged: Americans must engage in more face-to-face discussions that transcend partisan divides. This revelation underlined the necessity of nurturing the spirit of inquiry and attentively listening to one another—a stark contrast to the divisive culture often propagated on social media platforms.
This philosophy harkens back to the words of Benjamin Franklin, who advised against the use of absolutist language in discussions concerning contentious topics. Rather than proclaiming unequivocal statements like “certainly,” he suggested a more tempered expression, such as “it appears to me” or “if I am not mistaken.” These phrases invite dialogue and mutual exploration, promoting an atmosphere of understanding. Similarly, Alexander Hamilton, in “The Federalist Papers,” urged the avoidance of an “intolerant spirit,” cautioning that zealous attempts to convert others, whether in politics or religion, are fundamentally misguided.
At the Constitutional Convention, Franklin illustrated his perspective through a humorous anecdote about a French lady who believed she was the sole possessor of the truth. He aptly pointed out that each of us often falls into a similar trap of thinking we alone hold the definitive answers. Thus, it is vital to resist this temptation to view ourselves as infallible. Living in adherence to the Founders’ ideals means actively engaging in respectful dialogue with people across the ideological spectrum.
As the nation approaches a significant electoral season, I encourage readers to consider hosting their own gatherings reminiscent of my 18th-century dinner. While creating an atmosphere of historical authenticity can be enriching, remember that it is perfectly acceptable to utilize modern conveniences like a dishwasher for cleanup. Embrace the lessons of the Founding Fathers and fortify the bonds of civil discourse that are crucial for the evolution of our democratic society.
