Diogenes was an ancient Greek philosopher and one of the most famous figures of Cynicism. Born in Sinope around 412 or 404 BCE, he is best known for his ascetic lifestyle and his belief that virtue was better revealed in action than in theory. Diogenes often lived in a large ceramic jar and rejected societal norms, advocating for a life in accordance with nature. He is famously known for carrying a lantern during the day, claiming to be searching for an honest man. Diogenes' provocative behavior and sharp wit challenged the values of his contemporaries, making him a symbol of philosophical independence and critique of materialism.