Cynicism

1: Prelude: The Problem with Deviance 2: Reject All Disciples: Ancient Cynicism and Fearless Speech 3: Deface the Currency: Ancient Cynicism beyond the Pale 4: Fear the Mob: Antique and Medieval Idealizations 5: Drain the Barrel : Early Modern Malcontents 6: Unchain The Sun : Enlightened Philosophers and Libertines 7: Live the End Times: The many face of modern cynics 8: Code: The Inevitability of Cynicism

The book explores the history of cynicism, from the fearless speech of ancient Greeks to the current cynic's lack of social and political convictions. The author describes ancient Cynicism as a marginal philosophy committed to transforming values, which was later purified by the Stoics, appropriated by the Renaissance and Enlightenment, and transitioned to cynicism in the modern era. The author also explores the potential for radical cynicism that acknowledges its danger to contemporary society.