"Many a man thinks he is buying pleasure, when he is really selling himself to it"

This quote by Benjamin Franklin is a caution versus the risks of materialism and the pursuit of satisfaction. It recommends that when a person is focused on purchasing material products and seeking out pleasure, they are really offering themselves to it. Simply put, they are permitting themselves to be controlled by their desires and are losing their sense of autonomy. This can result in a life of misery and frustration, as the person is unable to find real satisfaction in their possessions or experiences. The quote is a suggestion to be mindful of our desires and to pursue a life of balance and moderation. It encourages us to focus on the things that genuinely bring us delight and fulfillment, instead of merely chasing after fleeting satisfaction.