Diogenes of Sinope was a Greek philosopher who lived ca. 400 - ca. 325 B.C. He was the most famous exponent of Cynicism, which called for a closer imitation of nature, the repudiation of most human conventions, and complete independence of mind and spirit.
But he was also a very playful philosopher who liked to use great wit when challenging the values and beliefs of his fellow citizens in ancient Athens. Here are some examples:
Someone asked, 'Why is it, Diogenes, that pupils leave you to go to other teachers, but rarely do they leave them to come to you?' 'Because,' replied Diogenes, 'one can make eunuchs out of men, but no one can make a man out of eunuchs.'
Diogenes was asked, 'What is the difference between life and death? He answered, 'No difference.' 'Well then, why do you remain in this life?' 'Because there is no difference,' Diogenes said.
The Teachings of Diogenes.
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