Final Answer:
Franklin begins his quest for moral perfection to achieve personal excellence and cultivate virtues that he believed would lead to a better life.
Step-by-step explanation:
Franklin's pursuit of moral perfection was rooted in his desire to attain personal excellence and lead a more virtuous life. He understood that by developing and adhering to a set of virtues, he could shape his character and behavior for the better. In his autobiography, Franklin outlined thirteen virtues, including temperance, industry, and humility, which he aimed to embody in his daily life. He meticulously tracked his progress, keeping a journal where he recorded his successes and failures in practicing these virtues.
Moreover, Franklin believed that the cultivation of these virtues would lead to self-improvement and ultimately contribute to a more successful and fulfilling life. He sought to eliminate his flaws and vices, striving for moral perfection as a means to enhance his character and make valuable contributions to society. By dedicating himself to this quest, Franklin aimed not only for personal improvement but also to set an example for others to follow.
Franklin's meticulous approach to self-improvement underscores his commitment to attain moral excellence. His pursuit was not merely a theoretical exercise but a practical endeavor, involving consistent effort and self-reflection. Through his pursuit of moral perfection, Franklin sought not only to improve himself but also to contribute positively to society by embodying the virtues he believed to be essential for a prosperous and harmonious community.