The 4th century quote "The foundation of every state is the education of its youth" is attributed to whom?

"The foundation of every state is the education of its youth" is a quote attributed to Diogenes. He was a Greek philosopher and one of the founders of Cynic philosophy, a philosophical belief from the 4th century where the purpose of life for Cynics was to live in virtue, in agreement with nature.

Diogenes was born in Sinope, an Ionian colony on the Black Sea coast of modern-day Turkey, in 412 or 404 BC. He died in Corinth in 323 BC; he was a very controversial figure during his life. He is best known for holding a lantern (or candle) to the faces of the citizens of Athens claiming he was searching for an honest man. Diogenes was a key member of a Greek philosophical sect that stressed stoic self-sufficiency, the rejection of luxury, and the lifelong education of man.

Historians presented evidence that education opened his eyes to the world, challenged him to be the best he could, and gave him great confidence to live a complete life. He was a person who had tutors and teachers who caused decisive interventions to happen. They changed the life and direction that Diogenes followed. Education opened his eyes to the world.

In line with his quote, Diogenes stated that his education gave him the necessary skills and wisdom to appropriately awaken others, to aid and fight for their society. They would make things better.

He had the ultimate goal of being instrumental in the future progress of his nation; education was the best alternative for people to make changes.