The famous encounter between Alexander the Great and the Cynic philosopher Diogenes took place in Corinth.
When Alexander asked if he could do anything for him, Diogenes replied, "Yes, stand to the side; you are blocking the warmth of the sun."
Rather than taking offense, Alexander was reportedly impressed by Diogenes's self-sufficiency and fearlessness, saying, "If I were not Alexander, I would wish to be Diogenes."
This encounter demonstrated Diogenes's contempt for power and material possessions. The meeting is a powerful illustration of the contrast between a life dedicated to power and fame (Alexander) and a life dedicated to virtue and independence from material wants (Diogenes).
Who is truly richer, the one who has everything, or the one who needs nothing?
