When I look upon seamen, men of science and philosophers, man is the wisest of all beings; when I look upon priests and prophets nothing is as contemptible as man.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This statement, attributed to the ancient Greek philosopher Diogenes of Sinope, offers a profound commentary on the different facets of human nature and the varying perceptions of wisdom and contempt:
Contrasting Perspectives on Humanity: The quote presents a stark contrast in how Diogenes perceives different groups of individuals. When he observes "seamen, men of science and philosophers," he sees humans as the wisest of beings. In contrast, when he looks at "priests and prophets," he regards humanity as contemptible.
Valuing Practical Knowledge: Diogenes' positive view of seamen, men of science, and philosophers suggests an appreciation for practical knowledge and skills. Seamen, through their navigation and exploration, represent practical wisdom, while men of science and philosophers embody intellectual wisdom.
Skepticism Toward Religion: Diogenes' negative view of priests and prophets reflects skepticism or criticism toward religious figures and dogma. He may view them as promoting superstition, dogmatism, or exploiting belief systems for personal gain, which could be why he finds this aspect of humanity contemptible.
Emphasis on Action and Observation: The quote underscores the importance of action and empirical observation. Seamen, scientists, and philosophers are engaged in activities that require observation of the natural world and the application of knowledge. Diogenes may view these qualities as hallmarks of wisdom.
Critical Thinking: The positive perception of philosophers hints at the value of critical thinking and philosophical inquiry. Diogenes, being a philosopher himself, may have held a particular appreciation for those engaged in the pursuit of knowledge and truth through rational inquiry.
Distrust of Authority: Diogenes' contempt for priests and prophets might be rooted in his broader distrust of authority figures who claim special access to divine knowledge or truth. He may have questioned their motives and the influence they exerted over society.
Human Inconsistency: The quote also highlights the inconsistency of human behavior and perception. It suggests that humans can exhibit both wisdom and contemptibility, depending on their roles and actions in society.
Philosophical Critique: The quote can be seen as a philosophical critique of the roles and influence of religious institutions in society. Diogenes' perspective aligns with the tradition of Greek philosophy, which often critiqued religious practices and beliefs.
In summary, "When I look upon seamen, men of science and philosophers, man is the wisest of all beings; when I look upon priests and prophets nothing is as contemptible as man" reflects Diogenes' contrasting perceptions of different groups of people. It underscores the importance of practical knowledge, empirical observation, critical thinking, and skepticism toward authority. This quote encourages reflection on the diverse aspects of human nature and the varying ways in which wisdom and contemptibility can manifest in different societal roles and contexts.
Who said the quote?
The quote "When I look upon seamen, men of science and philosophers, man is the wisest of all beings; when I look upon priests and prophets nothing is as contemptible as man." is often attributed to Diogenes (Quotes). Diogenes was a Greek philosopher and one of the most famous proponents of Cynicism, emphasizing a simple and virtuous life.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
