born , Sinope, Paphlygonia
died 0441; 320 BC, probably Corinth
Greek philosopher, principal member of the Cynics .
He is credited by some with originating the Cynic way of life, but he himself acknowledged his debt to Antisthenes ( 0441; 445365 BC). He conveyed the Cynic philosophy by personal example rather than through any system of thought. He strove to destroy social conventions (including family life) as a way of returning to a "natural" life. To this end he lived as a vagabond pauper, sleeping in public buildings and begging for food. He also advocated shamelessness (performing harmless unconventional actions), outspokenness, and training in austerity.