Frugality may be termed the daughter of prudence, the sister of temperance and the parent of liberty

Frugality may be termed the daughter of prudence, the sister of temperance and the parent of liberty

Samuel Johnson, the renowned 18th-century English writer, once famously said, “Frugality may be termed the daughter of prudence, the sister of temperance and the parent of liberty.” This statement encapsulates Johnson’s belief in the importance of living a frugal and prudent life in order to achieve true freedom and independence.

In Johnson’s time, frugality was not just a virtue, but a necessity for many people. The cost of living was high, and financial stability was not guaranteed. Johnson himself struggled with poverty for much of his life, and this experience undoubtedly shaped his views on the importance of living within one’s means.

For Johnson, frugality was not just about saving money, but about making wise choices and being mindful of one’s resources. It was about living a simple and modest life, free from the excesses and extravagances that could lead to financial ruin. By practicing frugality, one could avoid the pitfalls of debt and dependency, and instead achieve a sense of self-reliance and independence.