In this talk, I will provide a biography of one of America's most 
fascinating founders, Benjamin Franklin, with a focus on his broad 
scientific contributions and how his international scientific reputation 
enabled his influence on the political front.  I will also use Franklin as 
a model for defining "Civic Scientist."  Using Franklin's example and that 
of others who followed him, I will urge the audience to realize their own 
potential (and perhaps responsibility) to be civic scientists.