Quotes by Diogenes

Diogenes of Sinope, a seminal figure in the philosophical school of Cynicism, was born around 412 or 404 BCE in modern-day Turkey. Renowned for his ascetic lifestyle and sharp wit, Diogenes famously lived in a large ceramic jar and strived to exemplify a life of virtue free from societal conventions. His provocative acts—such as wandering Athens with a lantern in search of an honest man—challenged the norms of his time. Diogenes' legacy endures, inspiring countless thinkers to question social values and pursue authenticity in life.

11 quotes found

"I am not an Athenian or a Greek, but a citizen of the world."

Diogenes

"Man is the most intelligent of the animals - and the most silly."

Diogenes

"It is the privilege of the gods to want nothing, and of godlike men to want little."

Diogenes

"Why not whip the teacher when the pupil misbehaves?"

Diogenes

"Wise kings generally have wise counselors; and he must be a wise man himself who is capable of distinguishing one."

Diogenes

"The foundation of every state is the education of its youth."

Diogenes

"The sun, too, shines into cesspools and is not polluted."

Diogenes

"What I like to drink most is wine that belongs to others."

Diogenes

"The art of being a slave is to rule one's master."

Diogenes

"Those who have virtue always in their mouths, and neglect it in practice, are like a harp, which emits a sound pleasing to others, while itself is insensible of the music."

Diogenes

"When I look upon seamen, men of science and philosophers, man is the wisest of all beings; when I look upon priests and prophets nothing is as contemptible as man."

Diogenes

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