Diogenes Laertius
Diogenes Laertius
Full Name and Common Aliases
Diogenes Laertius was a Greek biographer and philosopher who lived in the 3rd century CE. His full name is unknown, but he is commonly referred to as Diogenes Laertius or simply Diogenes.
Birth and Death Dates
Unfortunately, there are no reliable records of Diogenes' birth and death dates. However, it is believed that he was born in the 3rd century CE and lived during the Roman Empire's reign.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Diogenes Laertius was a Greek by nationality and a philosopher and biographer by profession. He was known for his extensive knowledge of ancient philosophy and his ability to gather information from various sources, including original texts and oral traditions.
Early Life and Background
Little is known about Diogenes' early life and background. However, it is believed that he was born into a wealthy family in Athens, Greece. As a young man, he was likely exposed to the teachings of prominent philosophers of his time, which would later influence his work as a biographer.
Major Accomplishments
Diogenes Laertius' most notable accomplishment is his comprehensive collection of biographies on ancient Greek and Roman philosophers. His work, known as _Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers_, covers the lives and teachings of over 80 prominent philosophers from various schools of thought, including Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.
Notable Works or Actions
_Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers_ is considered one of the most important sources on ancient Greek philosophy. The work provides a wealth of information on the lives, teachings, and contributions of some of history's most influential thinkers. Diogenes' meticulous research and attention to detail allowed him to compile an exhaustive collection of biographies that would be unmatched for centuries.
Impact and Legacy
Diogenes Laertius' impact on Western philosophy cannot be overstated. His work provided a foundation for subsequent philosophers, including the likes of Thomas Aquinas and Immanuel Kant. The _Lives and Opinions_ remains a valuable resource for scholars today, offering insights into the lives and teachings of some of history's greatest thinkers.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Diogenes Laertius is widely quoted and remembered due to his extensive collection of biographies on ancient philosophers. His work provides a unique glimpse into the lives and teachings of influential figures from history, making him an invaluable resource for scholars and students alike. The quotes attributed to Diogenes offer valuable insights into the lives and philosophies of some of history's greatest thinkers.
In conclusion, Diogenes Laertius was a Greek biographer and philosopher who lived during the Roman Empire's reign. His comprehensive collection of biographies on ancient philosophers has had a lasting impact on Western philosophy. Through his meticulous research and attention to detail, he compiled an exhaustive collection of lives and teachings that would be unmatched for centuries. Today, Diogenes Laertius is remembered as one of the most important sources on ancient Greek philosophy.
Quotes by Diogenes Laertius
Yoksunluktan ileri gelen acıyı ortadan kaldıran yalın tatlar da zengin bir sofrayla aynı hazzı verir. (Epikuros)
(Diogenes) Bir gün Olympia'dan dönüyordu; çok kalabalık var mıydı, diye sorana, "Kalabalık çoktu, ama insan azdı" diye yanıt verdi.
We have two ears and only one tongue in order that we may hear more and speak less.
A vine bears three grapes, the first of pleasure, the second of drunkenness, and the third of repentance.
As to the gods, I have no means of knowing either that they exist or do not exist. For many are the obstacles that impede knowledge, both the obscurity of the question and the shortness of human life.
Discourse on virtue and they pass by in droves. Whistle and dance and shimmy, and you've got an audience!