Diogenes Laertius

Much of our knowledge of the Pre-Socratics and other Greek philosophers, comes from Diogenes Laertius. While there may be some criticisms that can be provided about this work, it's weaknesses are far outweighed by it's strengths as a primary source.
Obviously, many biographical details of the philosophers here treated are anecdotal and probably not historically accurate in every case, but that doesn't really detract from the work. I think Laertius did a fairly good job at presenting the teachings of the philosophers treated. One can simply look at the philosophers whose works are still extant in order to show that he was faithful in summarizing them. He certainly humanizes them to a great extent; e.g. Diogenes the Cynic comes off as a bit of an arrogant blowhard; Aristippus the Cyrenaic seems to be more of a comedian (in the modern sense) than a philosopher; and Epicurus comes off as bit of a cult leader. Laertius does seem to be interested in particular philosophers more than in others. He spends an ample space on philosophers such as Plato, Diogenes and Epicurus. This may indicate his personal interest in these philosophers, or possibly their acknowledged influence.
This is really an excellent early survey of Greek philosophy and thus essential reading for those interested in the subject of philosophy in general and Greek philosophy in particular.… (more)