Diogenes the Greek Philosoher

Cynicism in its original form, refers to the beliefs of an ancient school of Greek philosophers known as the Cynics.

The purpose of life according to their philosophy was to live a virtuous life in agreement with Nature.

This meant rejecting all conventional desires for wealth, health, power and fame and by living a simple life free from all possessions.

As reasoning creatures, people could gain happiness by rigorous training and by living in a way which was natural for humans.

They believed that the world belonged equally to everyone. Worthless customs and conventions of the society caused the miseries and suffering among people.

Many of these ideas were later absorbed into Stoicism.

This philosophy was originated by the Greek Philosopher Diogenes (400 to 325 B.C)

He advocated a simple and self sufficient life as the best way to achieve happiness. His scorn for the weaknesses of mankind gave rise to the present day meaning of cynicism.