Cynicism

Cynicism is a disposition of disbelief in the sincerity, goodness, or motives of others. It involves a distrust of human nature and a pessimistic outlook on the world, often accompanied by a sarcastic or mocking tone. It stems from a belief that people are primarily driven by self-interest and that idealistic notions are often naive or even deliberately deceptive. cynicism can manifest as a general skepticism, a tendency to find fault, or a withdrawal from social engagement. It's the tendency to expect the worst of people and the world around them.

Cynicism meaning with examples

• After years of political scandals, the electorate's cynicism toward politicians was palpable. They doubted any claims of integrity and viewed campaign promises as empty gestures. This cynicism led to low voter turnout and a feeling of disenfranchisement, as many felt their voices wouldn't be heard regardless of their choice. The distrust made them question the motives of all involved, regardless of political affiliation.
• The constant stream of negative news had fostered a cynicism about the media's objectivity. Many people questioned the narratives being presented, believing they were sensationalized or biased to sway public opinion. This cynicism made it difficult to trust any news source, further fueling a cycle of mistrust and uncertainty about the events unfolding in the world, and what the truth really was.
• His cynicism about relationships stemmed from a series of failed romances. He'd begun to believe that true love was a myth and that everyone was ultimately looking out for themselves. This pessimism coloured his interactions and prevented him from opening up, further perpetuating his isolation, as people were intimidated by his pessimistic view.
• The corporate world was riddled with a cynical attitude toward employees, treating them with suspicion and valuing profits above all else. Many workers felt undervalued and used, and they'd become cynical about their companies and their futures. This led to a decline in morale and motivation. The constant pressures to over-perform drove this cynicism, creating a toxic work environment.