The Laughing Cynic Who Taught Stoicism's Founder (Episode 185)

Discover the philosopher who transformed Zeno from shipwrecked merchant to Stoicism's founder. While modern cynics see only self-interest, Crates lived joyfully with nothing but "a wallet and tattered cloak." This philosopher sold his inheritance, mocked social hierarchies, and treated everyone as equals—from generals to donkey drivers.

Michael and Caleb explore how Crates' rejection of convention shaped Stoic philosophy. They examine the benefits of temporarily embracing cynical minimalism as a path to wisdom and why Epictetus admired these philosophical outsiders. A look at the roots of Stoic thought and the value of questioning everything.

Evolve Magazine – Cultivating Wisdom and Virtue

(03:05) Zeno and Crates

(05:11) Crates Life

(10:32) What's the point of studying philosophy

(12:00) Cynic Reject of Stoicism

(16:56) Flatterers

(18:27) Everyone Has Flaws

(19:48) Insults

(21:53) Hipparchia

(27:33) Joyous Philosophy

(29:55) Hardcore Stoicism

(32:40) Benefit of Cynicism

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Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations:

https://ancientlyre.com/

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