The Philosophical Life

The word philosopher derives from a combination of two Greek words: “philos” (φίλος) and “sophia” (σοφία). When put together, these two words roughly mean “lover of wisdom.”

Pythagoras coined this term (also the favorite theorem of algebra students, a² + b² = c²), choosing it as a humble alternative to other, more self-important titles. It emphasizes one’s ability to aspire to wisdom yet not be perfectly wise.

In contrast to Ancient Greek times, calling oneself a philosopher now would be a very un-humble move. I imagine this transition was beginning to occur even as early as the Roman Empire times, when Epictetus writes, "Never call yourself a philosopher, nor talk much among the unlearned about philosophical principles, but act according to them." Accordingly, it’s more common to hear “I’m a philosophy professor” than “I’m a philosopher.” This terminology seems  to reflect a broader, modern phenomenon where philosophy is treated as a job rather than a lifestyle. I think it’ll be fun to explore the stories of some people who lived and breathed philosophy.

Pyrrho of Elis

Let’s start with Pyrrho of Elis. Pyrrho is called a “skeptic” philosopher for good reason. The man did not trust anything. Not even his own senses. Timon of Phlius, one of Pyrrho’s followers, explains this in a way that seems plausible. At least in a theoretical capacity…  “I do not lay it down that honey is sweet; but I do admit that it appears to be so” (On the Senses). For Pyrrho, skepticism wasn’t just an idea he was working on for a book. The guy lived and breathed it to the point that his friends had to follow him around everywhere, simply to stop him from falling into wells, getting hit by wagons, or attacked by angry dogs. Why? His thought process probably went something like, “I do not know that the dog is dangerous, only that it appears dangerous.” In summary, 0/10 for survival instincts, 10/10 for commitment to philosophy.

Next up, Diogenes of Sinope. I think this anecdote speaks for itself:  “At a feast, a certain people kept throwing all the bones to him (Diogenes) as they would have done to a dog. Thereupon, he played a dog’s trick and drenched them” (Lives of Eminent Philosophers). Need I say more?

Also, Diogenes pulled a pretty funny prank on Plato.

“As he was leaving the public baths, somebody inquired if many men were bathing. He said, No. But to another who asked if there was a great crowd of bathers, he said, Yes. Plato defined Man as an animal, biped and featherless, and was applauded. Diogenes plucked a fowl and brought it into the lecture-room with the words, 'Here is Plato’s man.' In consequence, of which there was added to the definition, 'having broad nails'" (Lives of Eminent Philosophers). 

Chrysippus of Soli is renowned for his contributions to the philosophy of Stoicism, but perhaps better known for his cause of death. "For after a donkey had eaten up his figs, he cried out to the old woman, 'Now give the donkey a drink of pure wine to wash down the figs!' And thereupon he laughed so heartily that he died" (Lives of Eminent Philosophers).

I think these anecdotes are representative of the ancient view of philosophy: a way of life. It wasn't about creating dull theories, but living well, flourishing, and never forgetting a spark of humor.