Is Cynicism a Strength in Politics?

Cynicism doesn't help us see reality more clearly, but it does change reality. We can take control of our stories to escape the cynicism trap. My lab tries to help. In one study, we taught people that happiness is not a zero some game and that helping others helps us too. These folks, compared to those in a cynical condition, donated more to charity afterwards,. And they ended up happier as well. This is what i want you to remember: If cynical stories can become self fulfilling, hopeful ones can as well. Together, we're all stuck in quicksand sometimes - so grab hold of optimism!