John Templeton
Biography of John Templeton
Full Name and Common Aliases
Full Name: Sir John Marks Templeton
Common Aliases: John Templeton
Birth and Death Dates
Birth Date: November 29, 1912
Death Date: July 8, 2008
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: American-British
Profession(s): Investor, Philanthropist, Author
Early Life and Background
John Marks Templeton was born on November 29, 1912, in the small town of Winchester, Tennessee. Raised in a modest household, Templeton's early life was marked by a strong emphasis on education and self-reliance. His father, a lawyer and entrepreneur, instilled in him the values of hard work and perseverance. Templeton's academic prowess earned him a scholarship to Yale University, where he graduated with a degree in economics in 1934. He later attended Balliol College at the University of Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar, earning a Master of Arts in law. This diverse educational background laid the foundation for his future endeavors in finance and philanthropy.
Major Accomplishments
John Templeton's career in finance began in the late 1930s when he joined the Wall Street firm Fenner & Beane. His keen insight and innovative approach to investing quickly set him apart from his peers. In 1954, he founded the Templeton Growth Fund, which became one of the most successful international investment funds of its time. Templeton's investment philosophy was characterized by a contrarian approach, seeking out undervalued stocks in global markets. His ability to identify opportunities in diverse economic climates earned him a reputation as a pioneer in global investing.
In 1968, Templeton sold his investment firm and shifted his focus towards philanthropy. He established the John Templeton Foundation in 1987, with the mission of exploring the intersection of science, religion, and spirituality. The foundation has since funded numerous research projects and initiatives aimed at advancing human understanding and well-being.
Notable Works or Actions
John Templeton's most notable work is arguably his development of the Templeton Growth Fund, which revolutionized the way investors approached global markets. His book, "The Templeton Plan: 21 Steps to Personal Success and Real Happiness," encapsulates his philosophy on life and investing, offering readers practical advice on achieving financial and personal fulfillment.
Templeton's philanthropic efforts are equally noteworthy. The Templeton Prize, established in 1972, is awarded annually to individuals who have made significant contributions to affirming life's spiritual dimension. The prize, which often exceeds the monetary value of the Nobel Prizes, reflects Templeton's commitment to fostering dialogue between science and spirituality.
Impact and Legacy
John Templeton's impact on the world of finance and philanthropy is profound. As an investor, he demonstrated the potential of global markets, encouraging others to look beyond domestic borders for investment opportunities. His contrarian approach and emphasis on long-term value have influenced generations of investors.
In philanthropy, Templeton's legacy is equally significant. The John Templeton Foundation continues to support research and initiatives that challenge conventional thinking and promote intellectual curiosity. The Templeton Prize has elevated the discourse on spirituality and science, recognizing individuals whose work transcends traditional boundaries.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
John Templeton is widely quoted and remembered for his insightful perspectives on investing, life, and spirituality. His quotes often reflect his belief in the power of optimism, humility, and continuous learning. Templeton's ability to articulate complex ideas in a relatable manner has made his words resonate with audiences across the globe.
His famous quote, "The four most dangerous words in investing are: 'This time it's different,'" encapsulates his skepticism of market trends and his belief in the cyclical nature of economies. Templeton's emphasis on the importance of gratitude and open-mindedness in both personal and professional life continues to inspire individuals seeking success and fulfillment.
In summary, John Templeton's life and work exemplify the power of visionary thinking and the enduring impact of a commitment to both financial acumen and philanthropic endeavors. His legacy as a pioneer in global investing and a champion of intellectual exploration ensures that his contributions will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
Quotes by John Templeton
John Templeton's insights on:
The correct description is that we try every day to become more humble when we talk about divinity, we try to realize how little we know and how open minded we should be.
Three of my children are medical doctors, they know at least a hundred times as much about your body as my grandfather knew, but they don't know much more about soul than he did.
I’m really convinced that our descendants a century or two from now will look back at us with the same pity that we have toward the people in the field of science two centuries ago.
I grew up Presbyterian. Presbyterians thought the Methodists were wrong. Catholics thought all Protestants were wrong. The Jews thought the Christians were wrong. So, what I’m financing is humility. I want people to realize that you shouldn’t think you know it all.
The correct description is that we try every day to become more humble when we talk about divinity, we try to realize how little we know and how open minded we should be. It’s self centered to think that human beings, as limited as we are, can describe divinity.
Let’s worship Divinity, but understand the divinity we worship is beyond our comprehension.
The other boys at Yale came from wealthy families, and none of them were investing outside the United States, and I thought, ‘That is very egotistical. Why be so shortsighted or near-sighted as to focus only on America? Shouldn’t you be more open-minded?’
I focus on spiritual wealth now, and I’m busier, more enthusiastic, and more joyful than I have ever been.
It’s self-centered to think that human beings, as limited as we are, can describe divinity.
The main focus in my life now is to open people’s minds so no one will be so conceited that they think they have the total truth. They should be eager to learn, to listen, to research and not to confine, to hurt, to kill, those who disagree with them.