Final answer:
Benjamin Franklin realized that while moral perfection was unachievable, striving for personal morality and virtue was vitally important, leading him to contribute greatly to societal improvement through various civic projects.
Step-by-step explanation:
What Benjamin Franklin discovered after his attempt at being morally perfect was that absolute moral perfection was unattainable. He was deeply involved in the Enlightenment movement, advocating for self-improvement, intellectual growth, and a focus on personal morality over strict church doctrines. Franklin's understanding that personal virtue contributed significantly to public welfare guided his philanthropic and civic efforts. His establishment of institutions such as the Library Company of Philadelphia, the American Philosophical Society, and the Pennsylvania Hospital, along with his involvement in the University of Pennsylvania, all cemented his commitment to improving society. Moreover, as a Freemason, he cherished Principles of inquiry and tolerance. His attempts to codify a set of thirteen virtues highlight his belief in the importance of individual character development for the greater good.