A collection of Diogenes quotes and sayings.
Diogenes, also called Diogenes of Sinope, was a Greek philosopher and one of the founders of the Cynic philosophy, a Greek philosophical sect that stressed stoic self-sufficiency and the rejection of luxury.
Diogenes’s behavior and philosophical thoughts made him very popular, even though he came from a poor background.
Amazing Diogenes Quotes and Sayings
“I have nothing to ask but that you would remove to the other side, that you may not, by intercepting the sunshine, take from me what you cannot give.”
“It takes a wise man to discover a wise man.”
“The art of being a slave is to rule one’s master.”
“We have two ears and one tongue so that we would listen more and talk less.”
“People who talk well but do nothing are like musical instruments; the sound is all they have to offer.”
“I am not an Athenian or a Greek, but a citizen of the world.”
“You will become a teacher of yourself when for the same things that you blame others, you also blame yourself.”
“I know nothing except the fact of my ignorance.”
“The foundation of every state is the education of its youth.”
“Blushing is the color of virtue.”
“There is only a finger’s difference between a wise man and a fool.”
“As a matter of self-preservation, a man needs good friends or ardent enemies, for the former instruct him and the latter take him to task.”
“The health and vigor necessary for the practice of what is good, depend equally on both mind and body.”
“Even if I am but a pretender to wisdom, that in itself is philosophy.”
“If I gained one thing from philosophy is that at the very least, I am well prepared to confront any change in fortune.”
Thought Provoking Diogenes Quotes
“It is the privilege of the gods to want nothing, and of godlike men to want little.”
“He has the most who is most content with the least.”
“Wise leaders generally have wise counselors because it takes a wise person themselves to distinguish them.”
“Virtue cannot dwell with wealth either in a city or in a house.”
“Other dogs bite only their enemies, whereas I bite also my friends in order to save them.”
“Modesty is the color of virtue.”
“If I lack awareness, then why should I care what happens to me when I am dead?”
“If you are to be kept right, you must possess either good friends or red-hot enemies. The one will warn you, the other will expose you.”
“Why not whip the teacher when the pupil misbehaves?”
“The mob is the mother of tyrants.”
More Quotes by Diogenes
“Once he saw the officials of a temple leading away some one who had stolen a bowl belonging to the treasurers, and said, “The great thieves are leading away the little thief.”
“The vine bears three kinds of grapes: the first of pleasure, the second of intoxication, the third of disgust.”
“We are more curious about the meaning of dreams than about things we see when awake.”
“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.”
“To one who asked what was the proper time for lunch, he said, ‘If a rich man, when you will; if a poor man, when you can’.”
“When someone reminded him that the people of Sinope had sentenced him to exile , he said, ‘And I sentenced them to stay at home’.”
“Wise kings generally have wise counselors; and he must be a wise man himself who is capable of distinguishing one.”
Diogenes FAQ
Who was Diogenes?
Diogenes of Sinope was an ancient Greek philosopher, born around 412 or 404 BCE in Sinope (modern-day Turkey). He is one of the most famous cynic philosophers and is known for his unconventional behavior, wit, and disregard for social conventions.
What did Diogenes believe in?
Diogenes believed in living a life of virtue and simplicity and rejected materialism, social status, and social norms. He advocated self-sufficiency, honesty, and living in accordance with nature. He often criticized the customs and values of Athenian society.
Diogenes believed in self-control and in the importance of personal excellence. He also believed in the rejection of what he considered unnecessary in life, such as personal possessions and social status.
Why did Diogenes live in a barrel?
Diogenes famously lived in a large ceramic jar or barrel in Athens. He did so as a symbol of his rejection of conventional comforts and to demonstrate his belief in living a simple and unencumbered life. He would often move his barrel around the city, claiming to be a citizen of the world.
What is the story of Diogenes and Alexander the Great?
According to legend, Alexander the Great once visited Diogenes while he was relaxing in his barrel. Alexander, impressed by Diogenes’ wisdom, asked if there was anything he could do for him. Diogenes famously replied, “Yes, stand out of my sunlight.” This interaction illustrates Diogenes’ disdain for authority and his commitment to his philosophical principles.
More Facts about Diogenes
What is a “Cynic” philosopher?
The term “Cynic” derives from the Greek word “kynikos,” meaning “dog-like.” Cynic philosophers like Diogenes embraced a lifestyle of austerity, simplicity, and self-sufficiency. They rejected societal norms and material possessions, seeking instead to live in accordance with nature and virtue. They often used sharp wit and satire to critique the values and behaviors of mainstream society.
What is Diogenes’ legacy?
Diogenes’ legacy is primarily as a symbol of anti-establishment thought and unconventional wisdom. His teachings and anecdotes continue to inspire thinkers and challenge societal norms. He is remembered for his sharp wit, radical lifestyle, and commitment to living in accordance with his philosophical principles, making him an enduring figure in the history of philosophy.
What is Diogenes known for?
Diogenes is best known for holding a lantern (or candle) to the faces of the citizens of Athens claiming he was searching for an honest man.
We hope you enjoyed reading Diogenes quotes and sayings. Pondering on these quotes can reveal useful and practical insight, truth, and wisdom.
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