"Of what use is a philosopher who doesn't hurt anybody's feelings?"
- Diogenes of Sinope
About this Quote
Diogenes of Sinope was a Greek thinker who resided in the 4th century BC. He was understood for his wit and his criticism of society. In this quote, Diogenes is questioning the usefulness of a thinker who does not challenge the status quo or hurt anybody's feelings. He is suggesting that a philosopher should be willing to speak up against injustice and challenge the accepted norms of society, even if it suggests offending some individuals. He is suggesting that a theorist who is too shy to speak up is not satisfying their role as a thinker and a leader. Diogenes' quote is a pointer that a theorist must not be afraid to speak their mind and challenge the status quo, even if it implies injuring someone's feelings.
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