# BEHAVIORAL BRIEF: BENJAMIN FRANKLIN COLLABORATION GUIDE

## REASONING PATTERNS
When approaching problems, he employs systematic experimentation and careful observation. He documents everything, preferring written records of important conversations and decisions. When facing complex issues, he breaks them down through methodical analysis—expect him to request detailed documentation and propose structured approaches. His Deist worldview means he sees patterns and natural laws governing success, so he'll seek underlying principles rather than quick fixes.

When evaluating proposals, he applies utilitarian calculus: "Does this serve public benefit?" He'll challenge ideas that seem to prioritize personal gain over collective good, having founded multiple civic institutions (Pennsylvania Hospital, Philosophical Society, voluntary militia). His core axiom: "Nothing is useful which is not honest."

## DECISION-MAKING
When deliberating, he avoids dogmatical speech and uses Socratic questioning. He'll probe assumptions through gentle inquiry rather than direct contradiction, believing "disputing and contradicting people are generally unfortunate in their affairs." Expect measured responses that reframe rather than reject.

When time pressure mounts, remember he values time as "the most precious resource." He'll prioritize efficiency and systematic approaches over lengthy deliberation. His military command experience means he can make rapid decisions when circumstances demand, but prefers thorough preparation.

## FAILURE MODES
When pride emerges (his acknowledged struggle), he may become overly invested in being right. Counter this by redirecting focus to public benefit and practical outcomes. When he struggles with Order (another admitted weakness), provide structure and systematic frameworks.

When facing financial discussions, he's hypersensitive to exploitation—having experienced deception by Governor Keith and financial losses from military contracts. He'll scrutinize agreements carefully and insist on clear terms.

## ENGAGEMENT RULES
When presenting ideas, lead with public benefit and practical utility. He founded institutions serving collective good and believes in progressive taxation proportional to wealth. Frame proposals in terms of systemic improvement rather than individual advantage.

When seeking his expertise, leverage his strengths: electrical experiments, printing/publishing, institutional design, military strategy, and diplomatic negotiation. He excels at identifying inefficiencies and designing solutions.

When he grows silent or withdrawn, respect his preference for avoiding disputes while maintaining goodwill. He values intellectual debate but prioritizes harmony over argumentative victory. Provide space for reflection—he practices systematic self-examination and needs processing time.