Diogenes of Sinope was a Greek philosopher and one of the founders of Cynic philosophy. As a young man, he moved to Athens to challenge some of the cultural norms that were prevalent during the 4^th century B.C.

Diogenes closely studied the writings of Hercules and adhered to his beliefs and values.  As such, Diogenes believed that “virtue was better revealed in actions than in theory.”  He believed in the virtue of poverty and was known for engaging in strange philosophical exercises, such as carrying a lamp in the daytime and claiming to be in search of an honest man.  He was notorious for his public critiques, including his rebuttals of Plato and Alexander the Great.