I thought the same. Even if Franklin was not a puritanic protestant, I guess a bit of strict ethics rubbed off.

Also these "Top 10 of best virtues ever!!1" were always constructed by male philosophers and lack stuff like "Sociability, "Care", "Empathy" or "Compassion".

Not surprising re the influence of puritanism: despite being most associated with Philadelphia later in his life, Franklin actually grew up in Boston.

Sure, men in general probably have a greater tendency towards other virtues, but do you really mean to imply that men often lack stuff like "Sociability, "Care", "Empathy" and "Compassion" ?

Didn't a lot of "the big ones" talk about love? I think that encapsulates those values.

> Didn't a lot of "the big ones" talk about love? I think that encapsulates those values.

Interestingly, "the big ones" tend not to be classified as philosophers.

Sociability, care, empathy and compassion can all fall under the vague heading "benefit."

Semantically speaking, I don't think you have to disagree with this. Small talk and trifling conversation are not necessarily one in the same. "Trifling" implies that there is little value. Small talk may in fact have great value if it helps to forge connections that pay off later.

Sure, you have a point here. How does one know whether the talk will be small or trifling beforehand?

Contrast talking about your work or sharing knowledge against gossip and undirected repetitive venting.