NationStates Jolt Archive

Seeing many people, religious and non-religious alike, arguing over their moral foundations, I was curious to hear your views on cynicism. I do not mean the "jaded negativity" which as been confused with the often negative connotation of cynicism, but that which has been adopted by those who call themselves cynics.

Cynic - A person who disbelieves in human sincerity or altruism.

I consider myself to be a cynic, but this does not mean I am a bad person. I am nice to others, I contribute to my community, and I live a happy, fulfilling life. This does not stop me; however, from questioning the true motives of myself and others. I notice that from all acts, I receive some sort of benefit, even if it is merely a good feeling about myself.

I try to be a good, upstanding, moral person because I would hope that others would be too. I would be disgusted with myself if I were to expect something from others that I do not expect from myself.

It seems very bleak to think that everyone is governed only by their self-interest; however, as much as I have debated about it, I cannot see it any other way.

Do you believe that man can make a sacrifice of no benefit to himself?

My past girlfriends have not seemed to get this distinction. This often leads to misunderstandings.

Personally, I love cynicism, its just way too much fun to give up.

Do you believe that man can make a sacrifice of no benefit to himself?

No. Because everything is done for a reason, and benefit can be interpreted as anything.

I think greed is a part of human nature, and therefore I guess I am a cynic. OH, and a cynic can also mean a sarcastic, pessimistic, mocking, or scornful person. And therefore I guess I am a cynic.

I'm a cynic, I expect all people, nations, and organizations to act in their own best interests, devoid of other concerns. It is, after all, the way things work best.

Not to say, however, that I want to live in an anarchial system, there should still be laws. After all, it is bad for a nation if its citizens keep taking dirt-naps, hence it is in its best interests to discourage murder. The same goes for theft, assault, treason, arson, etc.

I think the Framers were cynics. They fashioned the U.S. government so that greed is part of the checks and balances. Unfortunately, F.D.R., as much good as he did, made the executive brach a little too powerful for my tastes.

Personally, I love cynicism, its just way too much fun to give up.
Just like my favourite cynic of all time...H.L. Mencken. I swear, anyone who is even mildly cynical must read him. He is the like the Edward O. Wilson of the political world for me.