SHAMELESSNESS OF DIOGENES OF SINOPE

Abstract

There are many testimonies from antiquity that Diogenes of Sinope did various shameless acts and probably because of them was nicknamed „the dog“. He lived on the streets where he performed all bodily functions, and that means that he masturbated, defecated, urinated, spat, ate and farted in public. Besides, he was often accused of defending incest and cannibalism. In this article the author will argue that Diogenes’ shamelessness has philosophical content, that it should be seen in the context of his general philosophical position on revaluation of values (paracharattein to nomisma) which is aimed at achieving a virtuous life in harmony with nature.