The Cynics adopted Heracles as their hero, as epitomizing the ideal Cynic. He characterises Ivanov as a cynic and claims to be an idealist. He lives his life an embittered and suspicious cynic, wary of everyone around him. He was a disciple of Diogenes of Sinope, the Cynic philosopher. Most composers called him an arrogant cynic. Cynic philosophers often engaged in political satire. His essence is that of a cynic and opportunist. Historians have often believed that he had no faith whatsoever, being a mere cynic. However, the most immediate influence for the Cynic school was Socrates. Later writers regarded him as the founder of Cynic philosophy. The famous encounter between Alexander and Diogenes the Cynic occurred during Alexander's stay in Corinth. Reimon also referred to Kurz as an inhuman cynic. None of this meant that a Cynic would retreat from society. Monty is the pet project of Professor Pitkannan, a Nobel Laureate and government cynic. The band is influenced by other progressive acts such as Cynic and Dream Theater.