Diogenes
“Diogenes, the famous cynic philosopher, argued that
to be happy one must rid himself of all riches, honors,
powers, and all the enjoyments of life,and he practiced
what he preached, going barefoot through Athens, never
wearing a coat, eating coarse foods, and inveighing against
corruption and comfort.
Diogenes was, in fact, convinced
of his superiority and did not hesitate to abuse those who
disagreed with him. It is reported that Socrates once said
to him, ‘I see your vanity through the holes in your
garments.’
Even more telling is the incident of Diogene’s
visit to Plato in his home. When the cynic walked across
Plato’s beautifully and richly carpeted floors, he stopped,
glared at his host stamped his foot squarely on the carpet,
and said, ‘Thus do I tread on the pride of Plato.’ ‘Yes,’ said
Plato, ‘And with a greater pride.”
Krishnamachari Santhanam
No comments:
Post a Comment