In the modern world, where would it be the best to have a lifestyle like Diogenes?

Question

In the modern world, where would it be the best to have a lifestyle like Diogenes?

Answer 1

Well, Diogenes' distaste for all things worldly and material stemmed from his idea that these things were ultimately detrimental to human happiness. Human happiness came in embracing nature as what he saw as our true, uncorrupted selves.

When I first thought about your question, I thought that he'd probably receive a warm reception in a strict Buddhist culture because they too would place similar emphasis on a rejection of worldly materialism as a corrupting chimera that disguised eventual enlightenment. The difference, however, with Diogenes, is that he did actually embrace one aspect of the material world; namely, our natural form and powers.

Diogenes' modern counterparts could perhaps be best illustrated in some of the Transcendentalist movement in America. Thoreau's "Walden" has similar points about the need for a spartan and simplified life as leading to ultimate spiritual benefits.

So, my conclusion after all my ramblings? Probably either a Buddhist monastery (with slight modifications) or a Transcendentalist inspired culture. What it evidently must have, is the appearance of poverty and simplicity.

Answer 2

Washington D.C,

Answer 3

Rome in front of the Vatican.

Answer 4

Why would setting matter? Anywhere where one can exhibit their contempt for human achievement.

Answer 5

Greece? since that is where someone with that name is likely to hail from.

Answer 6

He led a relentless campaign to debunk social values and institutions, a philosopher who thumbed his nose against the artificial elitism so I say the best place for a Diogenes like lifestyle would be among the elite and rich folks to practice his cynical behaviour.