Of what use is a philosopher who doesn't hurt anybody's feelings?
DiogenesRead
On being asked by someone how he could become famous, Diogenes responded: 'By worrying as little as possible about fame
Interpretation
What this quote means
Focus on living authentically rather than seeking fame.
Diogenes, a prominent figure in ancient philosophy, suggests that true contentment and recognition come from living a genuine life, free from the obsession with fame or public approval. His response highlights the irony that the less one chases fame, the more likely it is to come, as it shifts the focus back to personal integrity and authenticity.
Themes
FameWorryAuthenticityContentmentWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about self-worth, one could reference Diogenes' view on fame and authenticity.
More from Diogenes
All quotes βThe art of being a slave is to rule one's master.
DiogenesRead
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.
DiogenesRead
I am not an Athenian or a Greek, but a citizen of the world.
DiogenesRead
We come into the world alone and we die alone. Why, in life, should we be any less alone?
DiogenesRead
All things are in common among friends.
DiogenesRead
Similar quotes
When one speaks of awakening, it means de-hypnotizatio n; coming to your senses. But of course to do that, you have to go out of your mind.
Alan WattsRead
I had a great teacher in India who said to me, 'If you think you're spiritual and evolved and enlightened, go home for Christmas.'
Elizabeth GilbertRead
So many hours must I take my rest;_x000D_ _x000D_ So many hours must I contemplate.
William ShakespeareRead
Spend 5 minutes breathing in, cherishing yourself; and, breathing out cherishing others. If you think about people you have difficulty cherishing, extend your cherishing to them anyway.
Dalai LamaRead
The hard soil and four months of snow make the inhabitants of the northern temperate zone wiser and abler than his fellow who enjoys the fixed smile of the tropics.
Ralph Waldo EmersonRead
I am just a poor boy, though my story's seldom told, and I have squandered my resistance, for a pocket full of mumbles, such are promises. All lies in jest, still a man hears what he wants to hear and disregards the rest...la-la-la-la-la-la-la-lala-la-la-la-la...
Paul SimonRead