Diogenes was a famous greek philosopher of the fourth century b.c., who established the philosophy of cynicism. He often walked about in the daytime holding a lighted lantern, peering around as if he were looking for something. When questioned about his odd behavior,he would reply, I am searching for an honest man.

Diogenes held that the good man was self-sufficient and did not require material comforts or wealth. He believed that wealth and possessions constrained¹ humanity's natural state of freedom. In keeping with his philosophy, he was perefectly satisfied with making his home in a large tub discarded from the temple of cybele, the goddess of nature. This earthen tub, called a pithos, and formerly² been used for holding wine or oil for the sacrifices at the temple.

One day, Alexander the great, conqueror³ of half the civilized⁴ world, saw Diogenes sitting in this tub in the sunshine. So the king, surrounded by his countries, approached diogenes and said,I am Alexander the great. The philosopher replied rather contemptuously, I am Diogenes, the cynic. Alexander then asked him if he could help him in any way. Yes, shot back Diogenes, don't stand between me and the Sun. A surprised Alexander then replied quickly, if I were not Alexander, I would be Diogenes.