ARC Review: Diogenes, by Inger N.I. Kuin

A memorable and thought-provoking biography of one of ancient history’s most provocative philosophers.

I’d heard of Diogenes in college but didn’t know much about him before requesting this ARC from Netgalley. My Philosophy courses mostly focused on Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle before moving on to the philosophers of the Enlightment era, so I went into this with minimal bias and maximum curiosity.

Kuin does a remarkable job in painting a picture of who Diogenes the original Cynic was, both figuratively through examination of ancient historians and literally through references of classical art through the ages. The man who lived in a jar caused quite a sensation in the ancient world, ruffling the feathers of many prestigious figures including Plato and Aristotle, and leaving lasting impressions on such giants as Phillip of Macedonia and Alexander the Great with clever witticisms and matter-of-fact speaking. I burst out laughing more than once.

Kuin’s narrative leads readers to beg the question: Why isn’t there more discourse surrounding Diogenes and Cynicism in the modern world?

I think the answer lies in the life Diogenes lived and what he stood for. Chiefly, live with only what you need to survive and be at one with nature. Two concepts that, at their core, are inherently anti-capitalist and anti-nationalist when truly lived to their fullest, which puts Cynicism at odds with what societies and authorities consider acceptable and worthwhile.

I encourage everyone who is interested in philosophy to read this book. Kuin has done an incredible amount of research and has written this biography with a style and ease of understanding that immediately draws you in. Diogenes was truly an intriguing and life-changing individual who made a lasting impression on some of the most notable figures in antiquity. His life is a stark contrast to anyone else’s I’ve learned about, and to be quite honest, as the world literally burns down around us from excessive consumerism and environmental exploitation, there are many valid and crucial lessons to be learned from this philosophical legend.

I received an ARC for this book, courtesy of the publisher and Netgalley, and am leaving this review voluntarily.

This title releases 11 November. You can pre-order your copy on bookshop.org. If you would like a percentage of the proceeds to support Save Ancient Studies Alliance, use this affiliate link.