Cynicism abounds among a large swath of modern populations across the globe. I have met persons with cynical views from all corners of the planet.

It is easily evident here on Fluther with our heavily America-centered user base.

What is cynicism? Is it a philosophy? Is it an emotion?

What causes it? I personally think it arises in people who believe their own ability to affect outcomes of their own desires is most often thwarted. These people feel disempowered and blocked, and the frustration is easily channeled into expressing discontent with much of the state of the world.

Is it a sign of intelligence? I doubt it. If my idea of its causes has any merit, I think it’s an emotional reaction to dissatisfaction. It is in that case a sign rather of emotional immaturity. When an emotionally mature person is beset with a disappointment, they mark it and then move on.

Is it cool? I’m sure that in some groups it’s de rigueur among the whole group. Instead of being cool, I see it as a cop out. It’s a way of simply decrying the state of affairs in a situation and expressing powerlessness instead of doing the work to affect change.

What are your thoughts about cynicism?

Topics: philosophy, emotions, thoughts, ideas, outlook, cynicism, world view, cynic