Cynicism was conceived as a mode of living that purposefully refused to adhere to social conventions or political correctness; instead, one was to live one's life "according to nature." Founded by Diogenes of Sinope over 300 years before Christ, the philosophy concluded nature is the opposite of all we consider as conventional in society: The posturing and preening at social events so as to climb the social ladder would be viewed by the Cynics as shallow and absurd-something nature would never require of us.
In contrast, a good life for the Cynic is one based on self-sufficiency and living unfettered by the expectations and presumptions of society.
Was Jesus following the philosophy of Cynicism when he tells us, Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God? And how dare he overturn the tables of the moneychangers?
Cynics were noted for their bold speech and ‘shameless' behavior. Supposedly, some of Diogenes' successors were even earthier than Diogenes, defecating and urinating in public to demonstrate the hollowness of convention.
But let us not forget the modern definition of cynicism: "An attitude of scornful or jaded negativity, especially a general distrust of the integrity or professed motives of others." This is what most of us think of when we refer to someone as a cynic. We do not automatically think of the forthright rebels of Diogenes' day; instead we picture the debating candidate saying one thing for this audience and another for that audience, as he knows that that is what the electorate wants---a man for all seasons who does not want to burden us with facts.
This season of Jesus' birth reminds me of the Jaded Jesus, whose perspicacity exceeded simple distrust of the integrity of man, and resulted in a complete understanding of-with concomitant resignation to-the lack of integrity in those subjects who comprised his kingdom, and his inner circle.
In "The Fall," Albert Camus captures the wonderful humor of the Savior we should all appreciate this wondrous time of year: "He simply wanted to be loved, nothing more. Of course, there are those who love him, even among Christians. But they are not numerous. He had foreseen that too; he had a sense of humor. Peter, you know, the coward, Peter denied him; ‘I know not the man...I know not what thou sayest...etc." Really, he went too far! And my friend makes a play on words: ‘Thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church.' Irony could go no further, don't you think?"
What is that you say, Tiny Tim? Oh yes, "God bless us, every one!"
Yes.
Primary Topic:
Philosophy