Laertius Diogenes 
The Lives and Theories of Eminent Philosophers 

Diogenes Laertius’ ‘The Lives and Theories of Eminent Philosophers’ is a comprehensive work that provides valuable insights into the philosophical thought of ancient Greek thinkers. Written in a biographical format, the book delves into the life stories and intellectual contributions of notable figures such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. Through detailed accounts of their philosophies, readers gain a deeper understanding of the philosophical landscape of the time. Laertius’ writing style is clear and engaging, making complex ideas accessible to a wide audience. This work serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of philosophy. The author’s meticulous research and thorough examination of primary sources showcase his dedication to preserving the legacy of these influential thinkers. His passion for philosophy shines through in every page, making this book a must-read for scholars and enthusiasts alike.

About the author

Diogenes Laertius was a biographer of the Greek philosophers, believed to have lived in the early 3rd century AD, though his exact lifespan remains unclear. An enigmatic figure, Diogenes Laertius penned one of the most influential works concerning the lives and teachings of the ancient philosophers, titled ‘The Lives and Theories of Eminent Philosophers’ (also known simply as ‘Lives of the Eminent Philosophers’). This compendium is a principal source for the history of Greek philosophy, invaluable for its plentiful, albeit at times inconsistent, accounts of the lives, philosophies, and sayings of eminent philosophers from the pre-Socratics to the Hellenistic period. The work is organized according to the philosophical schools, rather than chronology, and provides a unique blend of biography, doxography, and anecdote — though the veracity of some of the more anecdotal content has been the subject of scholarly debate. Nevertheless, Diogenes Laertius’ contribution to the preservation of philosophical thought is undisputed, as his accounts often include references to otherwise lost works and traditions. His style is considered more colloquial and less formalistic than typical of scholarly works of his time, which helps illuminate the human aspects of these larger-than-life philosophical figures for posterity.