Understanding Cynicism

Cynicism is defined as a belief that people are inherently selfish, greedy, and dishonest, shaping how one perceives the world and others. This perspective can become a heavy burden, clouding one's judgment and making it difficult to see the goodness in people. The constant mental busyness brought on by cynicism can limit one's ability to experience genuine connections and opportunities for optimism. It acts as a form of self-protection, often leading individuals to lower their expectations of others in order to avoid disappointment.