Final answer:
Benjamin Franklin embraced deism throughout his adult life, a belief that emphasizes personal morality over strict church doctrines. His deistic worldview steered his philanthropic endeavors, significantly impacting his contributions to early American society.
Step-by-step explanation:
Benjamin Franklin, a prominent figure in American history, subscribed to deism, a religious philosophy that emerged during the Enlightenment era. This belief system does acknowledge a creator but posits that the deity has no direct involvement in the world and its events post-creation.
Franklin's adherence to deism influenced his moral outlook and his numerous philanthropic endeavors, such as founding the American Philosophical Society in 1743 and contributing to the establishment of the University of Pennsylvania as well as the Pennsylvania Hospital. His religious views were distinct from the traditional dogmas of the churches during his time, emphasizing personal morality over strict adherence to church doctrines.