cynicism
This term describes a pervasive distrust of human sincerity, often manifesting as a defensive mechanism to avoid disappointment. It carries a heavy emotional weight of disillusionment, where the observer assumes that altruism is merely a mask for hidden agendas or selfish gain. In a historical and philosophical sense, the word refers to a specific ancient Greek school of thought. This original form of cynicism was not about negativity, but about a rigorous pursuit of virtue through the rejection of luxury and social conventions to achieve true independence.
Meanings
An inclination to believe that people are motivated purely by self-interest rather than honorable or selfless reasons.
"His deep cynicism made it impossible for him to believe that the charity was actually helping people."
A philosophical school of thought founded by Antisthenes and developed by Diogenes of Sinope, emphasizing virtue and living in accordance with nature while rejecting conventional social norms.
"The early practitioners of cynicism lived in poverty to demonstrate their independence from material desires."
An expression of skepticism or a mocking attitude toward the sincerity or effectiveness of something.
"The proposal was met with a wave of cynicism from the board members who had seen similar plans fail."