Of what use is a philosopher who doesn't hurt anybody's feelings?
DiogenesRead
Calumny is only the noise of madmen.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Calumny reflects the irrational and unbalanced behavior of those who speak falsely.
Diogenes' quote suggests that slander and false accusations are not born out of truth or reason, but rather stem from the chaotic and uncontrolled minds of angry individuals. It highlights the futility of engaging with baseless criticisms, indicating that such noise is simply a product of madness rather than sound judgment.
Themes
CalumnyNoiseMadmenFalsehoodSlander
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about handling criticism, one might say, 'Remember, calumny is only the noise of madmen.'
More from Diogenes
All quotes βThe art of being a slave is to rule one's master.
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As a matter of self-preservation, a man needs good friends or ardent enemies, for the former instruct him and the latter take him to task.
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I am not an Athenian or a Greek, but a citizen of the world.
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We come into the world alone and we die alone. Why, in life, should we be any less alone?
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All things are in common among friends.
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