Comparison of the Cynic and the Buddhist philosophies.

Similarities.

 Both philosophies evolved as a direct reaction to the religion and ideologies that were dominant in their respective societies and condemned certain key ideals that the previously dominant philosophies endorsed. The Buddhist philosophy specifically condemned acts of violence or acts that caused harm to any other living being. This can be seen as a reaction to the Vedic endorsement of violence distinctively demonstrated in the Vedic Sacrificial Culture. However, the Cynic philosophy specifically condoned the �elitist� attitude that was present in many Athenian philosophy schools previous to its creation.

 Both philosophies disregarded the ideal that pleasure is related or has any connection to happiness. In fact, both philosophies state that pleasure is a preventative for attaining true happiness or enlightenment.

 Both philosophies endorse the neglect of the physical body in order to maintain the highest condition mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

 Both philosophies disregard the existence of any higher entities or gods and use individuals as (notably the Buddha and Diogenes) guides for behaviours and beliefs.

 Both philosophies believed that one�s way of life is heavily connected to the attainment of enlightenment or happiness.

 Both philosophies disregarded any type of connection between social status and the ability to attain happiness or enlightenment.

 Both philosophies held that the projection of emotional and material weaknesses upon life choices, decisions, situations and opinions is a major obstacle in the attainment of happiness or enlightenment.

 In the early stages of their development, both philosophies put emphasis upon oral teachings rather than that of the written word.

Differences.

 The Buddhist philosophy strongly emphasises moral ethics, including lying, use of bad language (present in Right Speech), thievery (present in Right Action and Right Livelihood) and sexual promiscuity. Whereas the Cynic philosophy seemed to endorse such behaviours; �He (Diogenes) saw no impropriety in stealing anything from a temple� (D.L 6,73;cf. D.L 6, 20-21). �all things belong to the wise� [Diogenes] (D.L 6, 11. 37 & 72; 10th Letter of Diogenes; 26th & 27th Letters of Crates) Source: Diogenes of Sinope � A study of Greek Cynicism. Farrand Sayre, B.S., A.M., PH.D. Baltimore J.H. Furst Company, 1938.

 The Buddhist philosophy held strong beliefs concerning the afterlife whereas the Cynic philosophy did not hold any beliefs, ideals, or doctrines concerning the afterlife.