Word of the Day:: Cynicism

{ by Justin Hernandez in articles on december 3, 2008 }

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Photo from PijO.

“A cynic is a man who, when he smells flowers, looks around for a coffin.” – H. L. Mencken

What is cynicism? It is an attitude characterized by the inability to trust others and view themselves or others in a negative light. Wikipedia breaks up this word in three parts:

Social cynicism
Social cynicism results from excessively high expectations concerning society, institutions and authorities. Unfulfilled expectations lead to disappointment, which releases feelings of disillusionment and betrayal.

Occupational cynicism
Occupational cynicism consists of cynical attitudes in relation to aspects of one’s own work, leading to a loss of pride and respect concerning oneself in relation to one’s own work.

Organizational cynicism
Organizational cynicism manifests itself as a general or specific attitude, characterized by frustration, hopelessness, disillusionment and distrust in regard to economic organizations, managers and/or other aspects of work.

While human nature may be imperfect, it does not mean that there are not genuine people out there. Failure or unfulfilled expectations does not mean that it’s the end or permanent. People may fail us, but it doesn’t mean everyone will. What do you think about cynicism? Please share.

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