Diogenes and Cynicism

"Cynicism" of ancient Greece and Rome derives its name from the Greek word for "Dog" (κυνικός). Aristotle refers to Diogenes as "The Dog" and Diogenes seems to have accepted the nickname. Cynicism was not a "school of philosophy", but rather an "erratic succession of individuals" which can be said to have begun with the philosopher Antisthenes. Antisthenes, an admirer of Socrates, renounced refined philosphy, claiming that the average person could know all there is to know. Antisthenes was probably more conscientiously philosophical though less clever than his pupil Diogenes. Antisthenes emphasized moral self-mastery and is purported to have rejected government, property, marriage and religion. Yet while Antisthenes regarded property as a hindrance, Diogenes was not above stealing, asserting that "all things are the property of the wise."

Diogenes did little philosophizing, but sought to live an exemplary life of autonomy. He lived in a tub and is said to have derived enormous pleasure in all that he did. He said Plato's lectures were a waste of time. Plato had defined Man as a "featherless biped". Diogenes plucked a fowl and brought it into the lecture room with the words "Here is Plato's man." Consequently, "having broad nails" was added to the definition.

Insofar as Diogenes was known as "The Dog" throughout Athens, at a feast certain people would keep throwing all the bones to him as they would to a dog. Accordingly, he played a dog's trick and urinated on them. It is believed that Diogenes trampled upon Plato's carpets with the words "I trample upon the pride of Plato", who retorted, "Yes, Diogenes, with pride of another sort."

Read more about Cynicism and the escapades of Diogenes in this excellent essay by Ben Best.