Cynic and Citizen of the World
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This talk will introduce one of the most arresting figures of ancient Greek philosophy, Diogenes of Sinope, the founder of Cynicism. Diogenes is the subject of some entertaining stories, which will be shared, but he is also a figure of great importance to ancient Greek and Roman culture, and a figure whose provocations retain their punch. Several provocative features of Diogenes’ Cynicism will be discussed, including especially the call to live as a citizen of the world.
Eric Brown was raised in a suburb of Toledo, Ohio, spent nine years as a student at the University of Chicago, and has taught at Washington University for twenty-eight years. His courses include introductions to philosophy, seminars surveying "Great Books" from Homer to Shakespeare, and classes for advanced undergraduates and graduate students in ancient Greek and Roman philosophy and ethics. He's husband to one, father to two, and much taller than you expect him to be.
Bradley Shutes joined our society in the fall of 2017. He is an engineer by trade, a nature photographer whenever possible, a humorist when appropriate, and several other things of equal importance and relevance, which he will someday include in this biography. Every laugh is an accomplishment, and every smile a victory. He began learning to play the classical guitar in early 2021. By sharing his newfound love of classical guitar with you, he hopes to put a smile on your face, or maybe even a few goosebumps on your neck. Or, if it doesn't go well, you can say to yourself, "Whelp, I'm having a better day than he is!"