Diogenes << dy OJ uh `neez` >> (412?-323 B.C.) belonged to the Cynic school of ancient Greek philosophy. According to tradition, he used a tub for shelter and walked the streets barefoot. A widely known legend tells that he carried a lamp in broad daylight, announcing that he was “in search of a human being.” Diogenes is often credited with saying that he was looking for “an honest man,” but there is no reliable evidence that he ever made this statement. He held up the life of animals as a model for humanity, believing that good birth, riches, and honor did not help people lead a virtuous life.
Diogenes was born at Sinope, in Asia Minor. Pirates captured him during a journey from Athens to Aegina and offered him for sale as a slave. He told his captors he knew no trade except how to govern people. Pointing to a wealthy Corinthian, he said, “Sell me to this man, he needs a master.” The Corinthian bought Diogenes and made him tutor to his sons. When Alexander the Great came to see Diogenes, who was sunning himself, he said, “Ask any favor you wish.” Legend says that Diogenes replied, “Please move out of my sunlight,” to which Alexander commented, “If I were not Alexander, I would like to be Diogenes.”
See also Cynic philosophy.
